Just In: UTAG Declares Indefinite Strike Over Mining in Forest Reserves, Farms, and Water Bodies

By

The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has declared an indefinite strike effective from October 10, 2024, following a decisive referendum on industrial action against mining and prospecting in forest reserves, farmlands, and water bodies.


The National Executive Council (NEC) of UTAG organized the referendum to gauge members' support for a nationwide ban on mining in these ecologically sensitive areas. The referendum saw participation from all 15 member branches, with 2,762 members casting their votes. An overwhelming 77.95% of the members voted "YES," with 2,153 in favor of the motion, 607 voting "NO" (21.98%), and 2 members abstaining (0.07%).


The National Independent Elections Committee (NIEC) declared the motion carried, reflecting UTAG members' strong commitment to protecting the environment and preserving livelihoods from the detrimental effects of mining activities.


Following the vote, the NEC held an emergency meeting and, in accordance with Article XIX, Clause 5 of the UTAG Constitution, unanimously declared an indefinite strike. This action mandates all UTAG members from its 15 branches to suspend academic activities until the government enforces a nationwide ban on mining and prospecting in protected areas.


UTAG’s leadership, represented by National President Prof. Mamudu A. Akudugu and National Secretary Dr. Eliasu Mumuni, expressed gratitude for the members' unwavering support in this critical national cause. The association's decision underscores its commitment to safeguarding Ghana's natural resources and preventing environmental degradation caused by mining.


The strike will continue until the government formally announces and implements the ban on mining and prospecting in forest reserves, farmlands, and water bodies.


By Nana Kwasi Asare 

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

E/R:Okyenhene Destools Coaltar Chief Over Deadly Clash

By
Image
The Chief of Coaltar in the Eastern Region, Barima Asiedu Okekrebesi II, has been destooled following a violent clash in Kraboa, a farming community in the Ayensuano District, which led to the tragic deaths of two individuals. The destoolment was officially announced by a delegation of traditional leaders (Nananom), led by the Apapamhene and Amantuomiensahene, Osabarima Okogyeaman Apagya Fori. The delegation carried out the customary destoolment process at the Coaltar Palace. The incident, which occurred on Thursday, January 16, 2025, stemmed from growing tensions over alleged illegal land sales and crop destruction in the area. Residents of Kraboa, angered by these activities, staged a protest against the chief. The situation escalated when landguards allegedly hired by Barima Asiedu Okekrebesi II opened fire on the unarmed protesters. Eyewitnesses reported that the landguards, estimated to be about 50 in number, accompanied the chief in a convoy of vehicles and motorcycles. The confr...
Read more

E/R:Abuakwa North MCE Honours Chief of Sokode-Juaso and Akyem Tafo Police Commander for Leadership in Community Development and Security

By
Image
  The Abuakwa North Municipal Chief Executive, Hon. Dr. Alhaji Umar Babs Bodinga, has recognized two prominent leaders for their dedication and impactful contributions to the community. Barimah Dr. Awuah Parker, the Chief of Sokode-Juaso, and Superintendent Isaac Ampofo, Akyem Tafo’s District Police Commander, were both honored at the 40th Farmers' Day Celebration held on November 8, 2024, in Sokode-Juaso. The event was celebrated under the theme "Building Climate-Resilient Agriculture for Sustainable Food Security." During the ceremony, Hon. Dr. Alhaji Umar Babs Bodinga lauded Barimah Dr. Awuah Parker for his exemplary leadership within just one year of his enstoolment as the Chief of Sokode-Juaso. He highlighted the socio-economic growth achieved in the area under the chief’s guidance, attributing much of the community's development to his visionary leadership. Hon. Dr. Alhaji Bodinga encouraged him to continue his efforts in transforming Sokode-Juaso into a prosper...
Read more

E/R: Abuakwa South Parliamentary Candidate Dr. Kingsley Agyeman Donates Equipment and Funds to Apprentices and Local Associations

By
Image
Dr. Kingsley Agyeman, the parliamentary candidate for Abuakwa South Constituency, has extended a generous hand to support local youth and artisans. In a heartwarming ceremony held at Akyem Maase, Dr. Agyeman, along with key New Patriotic Party (NPP) constituency executives, donated essential equipment and financial support to aspiring apprentices in dressmaking and hairdressing. Among the NPP executives present were Constituency Chairman Otis Asante, Secretary Julius Okyere, Women’s Organizer Nana Serwaa Oti, and Organizer Okyeame Appiah. The event drew participation from several electoral areas, including Asafo, Akooko, Adonkwanta, and Agyapomaa. Dr. Agyeman’s donation included 15 sewing machines and 15 hair dryers, aimed at helping young apprentices kickstart their careers in dressmaking and hairdressing. In addition to the equipment, Dr. Agyeman also provided a substantial amount of financial support. He pledged **₵1,000** for each apprentice—benefiting over 30 individuals—to be pai...
Read more

E/R:Trinity Presbyterian Model School Stages Captivating Drama to Promote Cultural Awareness and Practical Learning

By
Image
  Trinity Presbyterian Model School, a government institution in Koforidua Adweso, Eastern Region, has staged a compelling drama titled The Dilemma of a Ghost to foster critical thinking, practical learning, and cultural appreciation among students. The production aimed to enhance students’ writing skills in literature, encourage a deeper appreciation of Ghanaian heritage, and explore themes of cultural identity and adaptation. With its visually striking and emotionally engaging performance, the drama delivered a powerful commentary on human experiences and the challenges of navigating different cultural worlds. Through this thought-provoking play, the school emphasized the importance of embracing cultural diversity, irrespective of religious or ethnic backgrounds. The script, written by renowned Ghanaian playwright Professor Ama Ata Aidoo, allowed students and parents to gain insight into Africa’s rich cultural traditions while instilling essential values and life skills. The...
Read more

Eastern Region Inaugurates Task Force to Tackle Illegal Mining

By
Image
Koforidua, Ghana – The Eastern Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has inaugurated a nine-member illegal mining task force to combat the growing menace of galamsey and protect the region’s lands, forests, and water bodies for future generations. The task force has been mandated to monitor and prevent illegal mining activities, identify and shut down galamsey sites, enforce mining laws, confiscate illegal equipment, and engage in public education and community collaboration to curb the practice. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Eastern Regional Minister, Mrs. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, highlighted the severe impact of galamsey on the ecosystem, economy, and human lives, particularly through the destruction of water bodies and deforestation. She emphasized that the fight against illegal mining remains a top priority under the resetting agenda of the President Mahama-led administration. “The harmful effects of galamsey are far-reaching, and as a region, we can no longer tolerate this ...
Read more