Katanga Fellowood has pushed back against claims by the Katanga Alumni Association that it is not a legitimate group, following their announcement of a naked demonstration in Accra to protest illegal mining, also known as galamsey.
In a post on X, Katanga Fellowood expressed their frustration, stating, “Our own global association said we are not legit because of politics… oo Ghana! Our numbers on social media: Facebook – 98K, Twitter – 18.8K, TikTok – 30.8K, YouTube – 2.42K. What doesn’t look legit about this? We will demonstrate!”
The group has been rallying support to protest the pollution of rivers caused by illegal mining and has called on tertiary institutions to join the fight, arguing that “Twitter boys can’t win this galamsey battle alone.” They are seeking logistical support to transport participants from all 16 regions of Ghana for the demonstration, with reports indicating that some netizens have already contributed financially.
However, the Katanga Alumni Association has distanced itself from the planned protest. In a statement posted on X, the association clarified: “The Katanga Alumni Association does not recognize Katanga Fellowood and is not affiliated with any demonstrations or contributions related to it. Participation is voluntary and at your own risk. Katanga Alumni is not responsible for any actions or outcomes.”
This disagreement comes shortly after a 3-day protest organized by Democracy Hub, which also targeted illegal mining activities. During the protest, several individuals were arrested and charged with unlawful assembly, causing damage, and assaulting a public officer, with 50 demonstrators currently remanded by the Accra Circuit Court.
Despite the economic contributions of the mining sector, illegal mining has had devastating effects on the environment. Rivers like the Bonsa and Pra have been severely polluted by toxic chemicals, while forest reserves such as the Tano Nimiri and Draw River have also suffered extensive damage.
Meanwhile, Ningo-Prampram Member of Parliament Sam Nartey George has declared his support for the Katanga Fellowood demonstration. In a post on X, he wrote, “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!”