Addressing Illegal Mining: A Call to Reclaim Our Lands

Galamsey (illegal mining) activities

Addressing Illegal Mining: A Call to Reclaim Our Lands

The ongoing illegal mining activities in our communities pose a significant threat to the environment and future prosperity. These activities devastate landscapes, contaminate water sources, and undermine efforts toward sustainable development. The image you've seen is a stark reminder of the destruction left in the wake of these illegal operations.

At Save Our Lands Projects, our mission is to reclaim and restore these mined and degraded lands, particularly in the Atiwa West District, Eastern Region of Ghana. Our project focuses on rehabilitating these lands for industrial agriculture across multiple value chains, including moringa maize, cassava, cashew, palm oil, and livestock farming.

Illegal mining not only strips the land of its natural resources but also leaves behind barren, toxic grounds that are unsuitable for agriculture or any form of sustainable livelihood. This is where our initiative becomes crucial. By reclaiming these lands, we aim to reverse the damage, rejuvenate the soil, and create opportunities for sustainable agriculture that will empower local communities, provide jobs, and ensure food security.

However, despite the importance of our work, we have faced numerous challenges, particularly the lack of support from government ministries. While we continue to self-fund our project and conduct research to make it viable, the fight against illegal mining requires more substantial backing from authorities and stakeholders.

This project is not just about reclaiming land; it is about restoring hope, livelihoods, and the future of our environment. We call on all stakeholders, from government bodies to private entities, to support our cause and take a stand against illegal mining. Together, we can reclaim our lands for the benefit of all.