Katanga Fellowood has reported receiving threats following the announcement of their planned naked demonstration in Accra against illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey.
In a post on X, a member of the group, identified as Katanga Fellow, disclosed, “A call from this number 0205443337 full of threats!”
The group has scheduled a three-day protest from October 3 to October 5, aimed at drawing attention to the pollution of river bodies caused by galamsey. The demonstration will begin at Legon’s Okponglo and culminate at the Independence Square.
Katanga Fellowood urged tertiary institutions to join the fight against illegal mining, emphasizing the need for wider support beyond online activism. “The Twitter boys can’t win this galamsey battle alone. Katanga is ready by the way! Imagine all of us captured by the police and placed in one cell. We go shit spoil there all,” the group posted on X.
The group also called for logistical support to transport members from all 16 regions in Ghana for the protest. As of September 26, Katanga Fellowood had received GHC7,000 in donations, with netizens contributing to cover travel expenses from Kumasi to Accra.
Meanwhile, the Katanga Alumni Association has distanced itself from the demonstration, asserting that it is not affiliated with the group. In response, Katanga Fellowood has dismissed claims questioning the group’s legitimacy, maintaining their commitment to the cause.
In a show of solidarity, Ningo-Prampram Member of Parliament, Sam Nartey George, expressed his support for the protest. On September 26, he posted on X, “Count me in. Citizens, no matter how uncomfortable, must be allowed to have a voice. I’d put my money where my heart and mouth is. Let’s go!”