‘Galamsey’ Issues No Longer Garner Media Attention – Sam Jonah

Ghanaian entrepreneur and the present chancellor of the University of Cape Coast, Samuel Esson Jonah, widely recognized as Sam Jonah, has voiced worry about what he sees as a diminishing focus in the media on illicit mining operations, commonly referred to as ‘galamsey.’

The Vodafone board member expressed dismay at the media’s apparent neglect, despite the substantial harm and devastation inflicted by illegal mining activities on the lives and well-being of Ghanaians and society at large.

During a solemn speech at the launch of the 75th anniversary celebrations of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) in Accra on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, Sir Sam Jonah conveyed his skepticism regarding the media’s coverage of such a significant issue of national importance.

“I wish I could be confident that the coverage will be professional but I am afraid I can’t, given the largely unserious way in which another important national issue—the most egregious abuse of the rights of millions whose livelihood has been decimated completely by galamsey operations, has been treated by your profession [Journalism].”

“I don’t know whether you are exhausted and indeed frustrated by the shameful lack of decisive action from the authorities to your interventions. All I know is that your association’s pen which is your weapon has gone eerily silent on this all important matter. I would have liked to see a more concerted and sustained action from you. Sadly, that has not been the case. Galamsey doesn’t make the headlines anymore and yet the country is experiencing the ravages of this terrible phenomenon every day.”

He also lamented the health implications and complications caused by galamsey, which persist despite the evident outcomes.

“The alarming increase in children born with deformities, the epidemic of kidney and liver diseases, and the alarming mortality rates in the areas affected by galamsey activities appear not to merit your sustained concern.

“What a shame, what a pity! As Journalists the times we live in beckon you to remember your purpose, power and your responsibility. The price of the continued silence is too grave to fathom.”