Jema: How community action is protecting lands, rivers from illegal mining in Ghana

Alarmed by the destruction of lands and rivers caused by illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, and its rapid encroachment towards the Aowin Traditional Area, the people of Jema convened on 17 January 2019 to deliberate on the growing threat and its implications for the community.

The meeting culminated in a communal decision to reject illegal mining and collectively protect Jema’s environmental heritage.

This collective resolve was reaffirmed on 4 August 2022 through the Jema Concord Against Galamsey, a community covenant signed by the Chief of Jema, Nana Enoku Annor II, stool occupants, palace elders, the Assembly Member and representatives of various segments of the community.

The Concord formally expressed Jema’s united commitment to safeguarding its lands, rivers, forests and future generations from the effects of illegal mining.

In 2024, years of sustained community vigilance and environmental advocacy led to the establishment of Jema Anti-Galamsey Advocacy (JAGA), a civil society organisation registered under the laws of Ghana.

JAGA was officially launched on 26 October 2024, alongside the inaugural celebration of Jema Environmental Stewardship Day (JESD), an initiative aimed at promoting environmental responsibility, community participation and sustainable stewardship of Jema’s natural resources.

On 27 November 2025, JAGA marked its first anniversary and hosted the second edition of JESD. During the occasion, the JAGA Watch Committee was inaugurated by the District Police Commander to strengthen community-based environmental monitoring, early reporting and collaboration with lawful authorities in the fight against illegal mining.

Today, JAGA operates within Ghana’s legal framework to promote compliance with and enforcement of applicable mining laws, environmental regulations and the Jema Community Anti-Galamsey By-Law.

Through advocacy, environmental education, strategic partnerships, community mobilisation, monitoring and responsible civic action, JAGA continues to advance environmental justice, community stewardship and sustainable development.

JAGA’s journey reflects the principle that when communities unite to protect their natural resources, they can become a formidable force for environmental change.

Jema’s continued resistance to illegal mining demonstrates the potential of community-led action to protect the environment and inspire similar efforts across Ghana.

Our Belief

JAGA believes that every Ghanaian has a responsibility to help protect the nation’s natural heritage.

Environmental protection is not merely about preserving what exists today; it is about safeguarding the resources, health, livelihoods and quality of life of generations yet unborn.

Clean rivers sustain agriculture, fishing, public health, tourism, biodiversity and economic development. Protecting Ghana’s forests, farmlands, water bodies and ecosystems is therefore not only an environmental responsibility but also a collective investment in the country’s future.

JAGA stands for responsible stewardship today so that future generations can inherit a healthy, productive and sustainable environment.

Vision

To build a community where water and food remain free from heavy-metal contamination, cocoa production flourishes sustainably, natural ecosystems are protected, and every child is safeguarded from the harmful impacts of illegal mining.

Mission

To foster lasting community resilience against illegal mining through advocacy, environmental education, sustainable agroecological practices and strong collaboration with relevant authorities and security agencies, making Jema a model of community-led environmental protection and stewardship.