Ghana's Hidden Gold Market: Unveiling the Truth Behind Galamsey's Destructive Trail

ACCRA, Ghana – A recent investigative report sheds light on the clandestine "gold market" operating within Ghana, which is reportedly a major driver behind the nation's rampant illegal gold mining, locally known as "galamsey." The report, titled "The Gold Market That Fuels Galamsey," asserts that this untold story reveals a dark underbelly to Ghana's gold industry. The investigation highlights the severe environmental consequences of galamsey, showcasing aerial views of vast stretches of land destroyed by mining activities and rivers heavily polluted with sediment. The report emphasizes that this illegal mining is "destroying our land, poisoning our water, and feeding an underground gold market no one wants to talk about." The report traces the journey of gold from the illegal mining pits to seemingly legitimate shops openly buying gold. One interviewee, whose identity was protected, stated, "For the miner who is interested in selling his or her gold, his interest is not whether he is selling to a licensed or unlicensed buyer. Their whole goal is to get a better price." This suggests a systemic issue where demand for gold, regardless of its origin, fuels the illicit supply chain. The video raises critical questions about who benefits from this illegal trade, who provides protection for these activities, and why authorities have seemingly failed to halt the destructive practices. It concludes by presenting this as a story that "they never wanted told," urging for greater transparency and accountability in the sector. The findings suggest a complex network that undermines environmental protection and sustainable development in Ghana.