Ghanaian singer and rapper, Amerado has raised concerns about the effectiveness of music in addressing the issue of illegal mining, known locally as galamsey.

Speaking in an interview with Joy FM, the Kumasi-based rapper acknowledged the power of music to raise awareness of the issue but questioned who would take concrete action to stop the practice.

"Doing the music about galamsey would only create awareness. But who is taking the action after the song? What next? Who is taking the action?" he asked.

Amerado, real name Derrick Sarfo Kantanka, explained that while musicians can create impactful songs that resonate across Ghana and beyond, the responsibility to enforce change lies with the leaders.

"We can do the songs. The songs can travel all over Ghana, and the world. But who is taking the action? Who is in charge of making sure that all these things are being stopped? The musician is not in that position. I can do the song for you. But are the leaders ready to take charge? I'm not sure," he added.

Amerado’s comments come at a time when urgent calls for the government to address the issue of galamsey have reached a feverish pitch.

On September 22, 2024, some individuals including social media influencer Ama Governor and walking artist Glenn Samm were arrested during a 3-day protest against galamsey.

The protestors have been remanded by an Accra Circuit Court. They face five charges: conspiracy to commit crime, unlawful assembly, causing unlawful damage, offensive conduct, breach of public peace, and assault on public officers.

They pleaded not guilty to all charges and are set to reappear in court on October 8, 2024.

Several prominent Ghanaians joined the protest to express their dissatisfaction with the government's failure to end illegal mining.

ID/ ADG

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