UTAG declares indefinite strike, demands nationwide ban on forest reserve mining

The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has declared an indefinite strike, effective October 10, 2024, in protest of mining activities in ecologically sensitive areas.

The decision comes after a referendum organized by UTAG’s National Executive Council (NEC), where 77.95% of the association’s members voted in favor of the strike.

Out of 2,762 members, 2,153 voted “Yes” to support industrial action aimed at securing a nationwide ban on mining and prospecting in forest reserves, farmlands, and water bodies.

Just 607 members voted against the strike, with two abstentions.

In a statement, the NEC described the vote as a “decisive mandate” and emphasized the association’s firm stance on protecting the environment.

“This decisive outcome reflects the unwavering commitment of UTAG members to protect our environment and livelihoods from the destructive impact of mining activities in ecologically sensitive areas,” the NEC stated.

The strike comes amid rising concerns over illegal mining, or “galamsey,” which has caused extensive damage to forest reserves, rivers, and farmlands across the country.

UTAG is urging the government to take immediate action and impose a nationwide ban on mining to preserve the country’s natural resources.

Following the referendum, UTAG invoked Article XIX, Clause 5 of its constitution, which empowers the association to strike on matters of national importance.

“In line with this constitutional mandate, NEC has unanimously declared an immediate indefinite strike across all 15 UTAG branches,” the NEC announced.

The strike is expected to exert significant pressure on the government, which has struggled to control the environmental damage caused by illegal mining.

UTAG has called on all its members to stand firm, calling the strike a “critical national cause” in their ongoing efforts to protect Ghana’s environment.