Scribd
Upload
11 views

Passage 1

Uploaded by

abrahamalrysted
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
11 views

Passage 1

Uploaded by

abrahamalrysted
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 2

PASSAGE 1

GALAMSEY KILLS
Galamsey, a term used in Ghana, refers to the illegal small-scale mining activities that have
been plaguing the country for years. The practice involves the extraction of gold and other
minerals from small-scale mining sites without proper authorization or adherence to
environmental regulations. Galamsey has had a detrimental impact on Ghana's environment,
economy, and social fabric.
One of the most significant consequences of galamsey is the environmental degradation it
causes. The illegal miners often use rudimentary tools and techniques, such as mercury
amalgamation, which releases toxic chemicals into rivers and soil. This pollution damages
aquatic life, contaminates water sources, and poses health risks to nearby communities.
Deforestation is another consequence, as miners clear large areas of land, destroying natural
habitats and contributing to climate change.
The economic implications of galamsey are multifaceted. While some individuals engage in
this illegal activity to earn a livelihood, it undermines the country's formal mining sector.
Galamsey operations evade taxes, royalties, and regulatory fees, depriving the government of
revenue that could be invested in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Additionally,
galamsey creates an unfair competitive advantage for illegal miners, impacting the
livelihoods of legitimate miners who abide by regulations and pay taxes.
Galamsey also has social consequences for Ghanaian society. It fosters a culture of
lawlessness and undermines the rule of law. Illegal mining activities are often associated with
violence, as rival groups clash over control of mining sites. This leads to social unrest and
instability in affected communities. Moreover, galamsey often involves the exploitation of
child labor, with young children being subjected to hazardous working conditions instead of
receiving an education.
The Ghanaian government has been taking steps to address the galamsey issue. It has
implemented initiatives to curb illegal mining, including the deployment of task forces to raid
and shut down illegal mining operations. The government has also embarked on campaigns to
raise awareness about the negative impacts of galamsey and promote responsible mining
practices.
However, combating galamsey requires a multi-faceted approach involving law enforcement,
education, and sustainable development. Stricter enforcement of mining regulations,
improved monitoring systems, and enhanced cooperation among stakeholders are necessary.
Additionally, alternative livelihood programs should be developed to provide economic
opportunities for those involved in galamsey.
In conclusion, galamsey poses significant challenges to Ghana's environment, economy, and
social well-being. It is imperative for the government, communities, and international
partners to work together to address this issue effectively. Only through collective efforts and
a commitment to responsible mining practices can Ghana overcome the detrimental effects of
galamsey and pave the way for a sustainable future.
Answer the following questions on the passage
a. What is the term "galamsey" used to describe in Ghana?
b. What are some of the environmental consequences of galamsey?
c. How does galamsey impact the economy of Ghana?
d. What are the social implications of galamsey on Ghanaian society?
e. What steps has the Ghanaian government taken to address the issue of galamsey?

f. Explain the following words to mean the same as used in the passage
i. "Plaguing the country"
ii. "Detrimental impact"
iii. "Fosters a culture of lawlessness"
vi. "Undermines the rule of law"
v. "Pave the way for a sustainable future"

Replace the following words with another word or group of words to mean the same used in
the passage
g. Plaguing
h. Adherence
i. Deforestation
j. Multifaceted
k. Task forces

You might also like