In Ghana, the booming business of wildcat gold mining is posing serious threats to both people and nature. At unlicensed mines in the country, miners engage in dangerous practices such as wading through pools of muddy water contaminated with mercury, handling rocks with bare hands, and using rudimentary equipment to extract the precious ore.
While this informal industry provides livelihoods and revenue for Ghana’s economy, it comes at a steep cost. The use of mercury in gold extraction has severe health implications for the miners, leading to poisoning and long-term health issues. Additionally, the mining activities have a detrimental impact on the environment, polluting waterways, destroying forests, and even encroaching on cocoa farms.
Furthermore, the unregulated nature of these mines creates opportunities for criminal activities to thrive, exacerbating the social issues already present in the communities surrounding the mining sites.
Efforts to regulate and monitor these wildcat mines are crucial to addressing the negative consequences of the gold mining industry in Ghana. Sustainable practices and responsible mining can help mitigate the harmful effects on both people and the environment, ensuring a more balanced approach to resource extraction in the country.
Watch the video by FRANCE 24 English
Video “Ghana’s wildcat gold mining booms, poisoning people and nature • FRANCE 24 English” was uploaded on 10/09/2024 to Youtube Channel FRANCE 24 English