The Media Coalition Against Galamsey has expressed concern over the declining public demand to combat illegal mining, known as galamsey.

Convener of the coalition, Ing. Kenneth Ashigbey, criticized Ghana’s middle class for their lack of active involvement in the fight against these environmentally destructive practices.

In an interview on Citi FM’s Breakfast Show with Bernard Avle, Ashigbey pointed out that Parliament’s failure to revoke Legislative Instrument (L.I) 2462, which allows mining in forest reserves, has hindered progress in tackling illegal mining. He stressed the importance of unified efforts to curb the social and environmental damage caused by galamsey.

“There’s been a noticeable loss of momentum in the fight against galamsey, and part of the blame lies with the middle class for not stepping up,” Ashigbey remarked. He acknowledged that while the media’s efforts have slowed, particularly after the October 10 strike, there remains a pressing need for action.

Ashigbey also emphasized the need for stakeholders to regroup and rally behind the cause, calling for the support of academia and the middle class to pressure the government into taking decisive action against galamsey.