Major Roads Leading to Accra Central Blocked as Anti-Galamsey Protest Begins
Motorists traveling from the Airport area towards Accra Central are facing significant roadblocks as all major routes, including those passing through 37 Military Hospital, Burma Camp, and Ako Adjei Interchange towards Kawukudi, have been sealed off. The roadblocks mark the start of a three-day protest, dubbed “Stop the Galamsey and Re-Occupy Julorbi House,” organized by Democracy Hub, a prominent civil society group.
The protest, which kicked off today, is aimed at drawing attention to the rampant illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey, and the severe environmental damage it has caused across the country. Organizers of the demonstration have made it clear that no vehicles, except emergency services heading to the 37 Military Hospital, will be allowed to pass through the affected roads.
Speaking to TV3, one of the protest leaders, Mawuse Oliver Barker-Vormawor, emphasized the urgency of the protest and called for nationwide support. “If all Ghanaians can come together to support the protest, we will achieve the needed results,” he said. His remarks highlighted the group’s resolve to hold the government accountable and push for stronger measures against illegal mining.
Other protesters expressed deep frustration over the pollution of water bodies in rural areas due to galamsey activities. Many lamented the devastating impact on their families, who rely on these natural resources for drinking water and farming.
“The rivers in our communities have turned brown with chemicals, and people are falling sick. It’s heartbreaking to see our children drink this polluted water,” said one protester, sharing the grim reality faced by many rural Ghanaians.
The demonstration is expected to continue for the next two days, with more groups anticipated to join in as the movement gains momentum. The Stop the Galamsey campaign seeks to push the government to take decisive action in addressing illegal mining, which has been blamed for widespread environmental degradation, particularly in the country’s forests and water bodies.
Motorists and commuters are advised to avoid the affected routes and plan alternative routes to their destinations. Meanwhile, security forces are on high alert to ensure the protest remains peaceful, although tensions are high as the demonstrators vow not to back down until their demands are met.
