Stop Galamsey Now Protest

Stop Galamsey Now is a protest led by the Democracy Hub to put pressure on the Government of Ghana to enforce measures to stop illegal mining practices in Ghana. It was a 3-day protest organised from 21 September 2024 and lasted until 23 September 2024. Protesters demanded a direct and decisive intervention from President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, in the form of a presidential order that stops all illegal mining activities, particularly in forest reserves and along key rivers.
Background
Galamsey is a term used to describe illegal small mining activities near water bodies in Ghana. The illegal nature of the mining activities have negative impacts on the environment. Most notably, major rivers such as the Pra, Ankobra, and Birim have all been polluted from the use of harmful chemicals like mercury and cyanide.
Protest
Day One - 21 September 2024
The protest began on the streets in front of the 37 Military Hospital. This led to the creation of police barriers to prevent protesters from getting access to the Jubilee House, which is the seat of the Government of Ghana. As a result, protesters burned down flags of the ruling New Patriotic Party.
Day Two - 22 September 2024
After the inconveniences caused by the blocking of the road, the Ghana Police service made requests to the protesters regarding a relocation. When they refused to comply, several protesters were arrested. There were 11 arrests including a 62 year old woman and a 10 year old girl.
Day Three - 23 September 2024
After the mass arrest of day two, protesters did not show up for the third and final day. Only two protesters showed up with placards and they were later arrested.
Arrests and aftermath
In total, there were 51 arrests who were held in different prisons across the country. According to a member of the Democracy Hub's legal team, the arrested protesters were denied access to legal representation and 39 of them were remanded into custody by a court in Accra.

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