ACE4ES Consortium fights illegal mining, promotes sustainable Agriculture

The ACE4ES Consortium, led by Dr. Kwaku Onwona-Hwesofour Asante from the CSIR-Crops Research Institute, has intensified its fight against illegal mining, also known as galamsey, while promoting sustainable agriculture in Ghana’s Upper West region.

The initiative took center stage during a sensitization program that coincided with the 2024 World Food Day (WFD), focusing on the critical intersection of food security, environmental preservation, and the destructive impact of galamsey on agricultural lands and water resources.

Addressing the Threat to Food Security and Agriculture

Dr. Asante highlighted the urgency of protecting agricultural lands from the harmful effects of illegal mining, which has significantly contributed to the contamination of water bodies and the reduction of arable land. He stressed that the activities of illegal miners pose a serious threat to food security and the livelihoods of vulnerable communities, particularly women and youth who depend on agriculture. The ACE4ES project, he emphasized, stands firmly in support of the national fight against galamsey, advocating for the long-term sustainability of agriculture and the environment.

World Food Day and Environmental Protection

Linking the World Food Day theme, “Right to Foods for a Better Life and a Better Future,” to the ongoing environmental challenges, Dr. Asante underscored the need for immediate action against illegal mining to safeguard the future of food systems in Ghana. He emphasized that protecting natural resources is vital for ensuring access to safe, nutritious food, aligning with global efforts to secure food security and environmental sustainability.

Promoting Sustainable Agricultural Practices

The ACE4ES team engaged local farmers in discussions on adopting agroecology and circular economy practices to promote sustainable agriculture. The workshop introduced practical techniques for rice and maize production, such as the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) and the use of organic inputs to replace chemical fertilizers. Farmers were also encouraged to recycle biomass waste into compost, reducing emissions and improving soil fertility.

Calls for Policy Reform

The event also served as a platform for advocacy, with Mr. Bismark Owusu Tetteh Nortey, Executive Director of the Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana, calling for comprehensive policies on agroecology, climate action, and circular economy principles. He stressed that supporting smallholder farmers with climate-resilient practices is crucial to achieving sustainable agricultural transformation in Ghana.

Stakeholder Commitment

The event garnered support from various stakeholders, including traditional leaders, district agricultural directors, and representatives of women and youth farmer groups. Queen Mother Fatima, representing women farmers, expressed optimism about the initiative’s potential to improve yields while protecting agricultural lands for future generations. The participants pledged to adopt the sustainable practices shared during the session and champion efforts to combat illegal mining in their communities.

Collective Action for a Greener Future

As the ACE4ES Consortium continues its mission across the region, Dr. Asante emphasized the importance of collective action involving farmers, policymakers, traditional leaders, and civil society in securing both the environment and food systems for future generations. The success of the workshop in Wa highlights the power of collaboration and education in advancing sustainable development, setting the stage for further progress in other regions.