Organised Labour suspends nationwide strike over galamsey

Organised Labour has announced the suspension of its planned nationwide strike aimed at pressuring the government to take decisive action against illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey.

The strike, initially set to begin on October 10, 2024, was part of a broader movement to address the environmental and socio-economic crises stemming from illegal mining in Ghana.

The decision to suspend the strike follows ongoing discussions between Organised Labour and government officials, who have indicated a willingness to engage in dialogue regarding the pressing issues related to galamsey.

Union leaders expressed hope that these discussions could lead to concrete actions to mitigate the devastating impacts of illegal mining on the environment, agriculture, and local communities.

Organised Labour, representing various trade unions across the country, emphasized that the suspension is not an end to their demands but rather a strategic pause to facilitate more constructive engagement with the government.

Galamsey crisis

Illegal mining has become a contentious issue in Ghana, contributing to widespread environmental degradation, water pollution, and loss of biodiversity.

The cocoa industry, a vital component of the national economy, has been particularly hard-hit by these activities, leading to fears about the long-term sustainability of cocoa farming and the livelihoods of millions of farmers.

The impacts of galamsey extend beyond environmental concerns; they also affect public health and safety. The use of hazardous chemicals in mining processes poses significant health risks to communities, while the destruction of land can lead to conflicts over resources.

Despite widespread support from key unions, including the Public Utility Workers Union and the General Agricultural Workers Union, the Ghana Medical Association (GMA) and the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) had distanced themselves from the industrial action, opting instead to continue providing essential healthcare services.

The decision to suspend the strike comes as a surprise to many, as unions had appeared resolute in their stance during previous meetings and public statements.

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