The Association of Professional Development Communicators–Ghana (APDC-Ghana) has called for comprehensive research in illegal mining (galamsey)-affected areas to identify the socio-economic drivers of galamsey.
According to the Association, “Sustainable solutions to the galamsey crisis require a shift from enforcement to empathy, research, and genuine community engagement that addresses underlying socio-economic drivers.”
In a statement issued on Friday, it noted the need for the immediate launch of a multi-stakeholder research project and the development of pilot programs based on findings to create sustainable employment and economic opportunities, particularly for the youth.
“As development communicators, we are committed to fostering meaningful dialogue between communities and policymakers to ensure that solutions are community-driven and foster behavior change,” it added.
The Association also called for engagement with communities through town hall meetings to gather insights and explore alternative livelihoods.
“Reassessing mining licenses to improve accountability and ensure compliance with environmental standards. Implementing an immediate halt to all small-scale mining activities to allow for the identification and proper assessment of all mining sites,” it further stated.
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