Atewa crisis: CCAL raises alarm over environmental degradation

The Concerned Citizens of Atewa Landscape (CCAL) has raised alarm over the worsening environmental situation in the Atewa Landscape, calling for immediate and decisive government intervention. In a statement issued on Tuesday, 21 April, the group urged authorities to declare a State of Environmental Emergency to address the rapid degradation occurring in the area.
According to CCAL, illegal and unregulated mining—commonly known as galamsey—is accelerating the destruction of forests, contaminating vital water bodies, and rendering farmlands unproductive. These developments, the group warned, pose a direct threat to biodiversity, water security, and the livelihoods of local communities.

A critical national resource under threat
CCAL emphasized the strategic importance of the Atewa Landscape, describing it as a crucial ecological zone and a significant source of water for surrounding regions. The group cautioned that continued neglect could lead to irreversible damage, affecting not only the immediate environment but also broader national interests.
The statement highlighted that while mining contributes to economic activity, the current lack of structure and oversight has created a dangerous imbalance between economic gain and environmental sustainability.

Call for a State of Environmental Emergency
In response to the escalating crisis, CCAL is advocating for the declaration of a State of Environmental Emergency. The group believes such a move would provide the legal authority and urgency required to halt destructive practices and fast-track reforms. They argue that without this level of intervention, efforts to curb illegal mining and rehabilitate degraded lands will remain insufficient and fragmented.

A cooperative mining framework as a solution
As part of its recommendations, CCAL proposed the introduction of a Cooperative Mining Framework to regulate mining activities in the Atewa Landscape. The framework aims to bring order and accountability to the sector while preserving environmental integrity. Key elements of the proposal include:
Identification and registration of all miners operating in the area
Formation of legally recognized mining cooperatives
Mandatory training in responsible mining and environmental protection
Restriction of mining licenses exclusively to cooperatives
Enforcement of land reclamation and ecosystem restoration measures
The group believes this structured approach would help align mining practices with environmental standards while safeguarding livelihoods.

Multi-stakeholder collaboration for sustainable outcomes
CCAL also called for the creation of a multi-stakeholder consortium to oversee the implementation of reforms. This body would include traditional authorities, district assemblies, government agencies, and civil society organizations. The proposed consortium would coordinate efforts in:
Promoting responsible mining practices
Restoring degraded lands
Supporting alternative and sustainable livelihoods

By involving diverse stakeholders, CCAL hopes to ensure transparency, accountability, and long-term success in managing the Atewa Landscape.

CCAL pledges Slsupport and urges immediate action
The group reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the reform process through community engagement, technical expertise in land reclamation, and coordination among stakeholders. It also announced plans to intensify advocacy efforts with the media, government institutions, and traditional leaders.
Ending its statement on a firm note, CCAL stressed the urgency of the situation:
“The time to act is now.”