Galamsey, a term used in Ghana to describe illegal small-scale mining, has been a major issue for years due to its destructive impact on the environment, particularly the country’s rivers and water bodies. This illegal mining practice has led to severe deforestation, water pollution, and the degradation of farmlands, affecting livelihoods and causing widespread environmental damage.
The issue resurfaced recently when journalist Berla Mundi reported on the devastation of the rivers, alongside a cocoa farmer in Twifo Praso in the Central Region. The ongoing protests, organized by Democracy Hub under the banners #StopGalamsey and #ReOccupyJulorbi, have sent shockwaves through the nation. These protests have dominated social media, becoming one of the most trending topics. However, unlike other popular issues, the fight to end galamsey has seen an unusual silence from Ghanaian musicians, many of whom often speak out on social issues.
Many believe this silence is due to their political affiliations. In recent years, it has become increasingly apparent that some musicians rely on political connections to sustain their careers financially. With many musicians openly admitting to struggling financially, it’s not uncommon for them to align with politicians for financial gain. This alignment often takes the form of campaigning for political figures during elections.
However, beyond campaign endorsements, there are other ways in which musicians profit from their political ties. Some musicians help politicians embezzle money through their nonprofit organizations. These organizations solicit donations from politicians, but because the funds are not taxed or fully accounted for, both the musicians and the politicians can embezzle the money while only a small portion is used for the stated cause.
This deeply intertwined relationship between celebrities and politicians makes it difficult for musicians to publicly speak out on non-partisan issues. In the case of galamsey, both major political parties are believed to have members involved in the illegal mining activities. As a result, many celebrities avoid expressing their opinions, as it could jeopardize their financial connections with political figures.
The silence of Ghanaian musicians on galamsey is a clear reflection of how political affiliations have compromised their ability to take a stand on critical national issues. If you live or don’t live in Ghana but you support Ghanaian music, take note of these handful of Ghanaian artist that have chosen to be silent on the Galamsey demonstration fighting against a series issue set to poison the nation.
Kidi
Kwame Eugene
MzVee
Stonebwoi
Sarkodie
Efya
Shatta Wale
Gyakie
Black Sheriff
Wendy Shay
King Paluta
King Promise
If you follow or support any of these musicians, feel free to tag them or ask them why they aren’t supporting the demo or speaking out against an issue that is poisoning their country.
