Addressing the Challenge of Illegal Small-Scale Mining (Galamsey) in Ghana: A Call for Sustainable Solutions

Abstract

Illegal small-scale mining, also known as galamsey, is a threat to Ghana’s sustainable growth, posing serious environmental degradation and gross socio-economic effects. Drawing on Ghana’s mining industry and comparative cross-case international studies, this paper integrates evidence to provide a holistic analysis of the galamsey phenomenon and the transformational potential of formalization. This research proves that unregulated mining operations have contaminated 60% of water bodies in the mining regions in Ghana, rendered 30% of arable land unusable, and triggered violent conflicts over mining territories. The study shows that the successful implementation of strategic formalization in Tanzania and Burkina Faso, has the tenacity of improving three key areas: (1) environmental protection (reduction in mercury pollution (85%)), (2) economic benefits (increase in government revenues (350%)), and (3) social welfare (reduction in the workplace fatalities (62%)). The study identified four critical factors: digital licensing systems that cut down bureaucratic barriers, cooperative models that ensure improved accessibility to financing and technology, comprehensive training programs in sustainable mining practices, and integrated monitoring combining satellite surveillance and community participation. This paper emphasizes that successful formalization implementation requires strategies that go beyond regulatory changes. It requires an inclusive strategy that integrates policy reform, institutional capacity building, and community engagement. The paper presents a comprehensive phased implementation framework that aligns with Ghana’s commitments under the Africa Mining Vision and adds to achieving SDGs 8, 12, and 15. We conclude with evidence-based recommendations for policymakers, emphasizing the importance of sustained political will, predictable resource allocation, and genuine multi-stakeholder engagement.