UTAG Declares Nationwide Strike Against Galamsey
University Teachers Association Demands Immediate Action Against Illegal Mining Threatening Ghana’s Environment
- UTAG has declared a nationwide strike
- A significant majority of UTAG members voted in favor of the strike during a recent referendum
- UTAG demands a formal nationwide ban on mining
The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has declared a nationwide strike set to commence on Thursday, October 10, 2024, in response to the ongoing crisis of illegal mining, known as galamsey.
This decision comes despite Organised Labour’s recent choice to pause its planned strike after the government pledged to tackle the issue.
In a referendum held on Wednesday, October 9, a significant majority of UTAG members—77.95% (2,153 votes)—voted in favor of the strike, while 21.98% (607 votes) opposed it, and only 0.07% (2 votes) abstained.
UTAG’s National Executive Council has unanimously called for an immediate and indefinite strike across all 15 branches. Members have been instructed to participate until the government formally enacts a nationwide ban on mining and prospecting in protected areas, including forest reserves, farmlands, and water bodies.
Following the referendum, the NEC convened an emergency meeting, invoking Article XIX, Clause 5 of the UTAG Constitution to legitimize their action. The decision aims to pressure the government into taking urgent measures against galamsey, which has wreaked havoc on Ghana’s vital water resources and forests.
Prof. Ransford Gyampo, President of UG-UTAG, emphasized the gravity of the situation during a press briefing, reiterating the association’s commitment to advocating for effective solutions to this pressing environmental crisis.
