There are few foods more pleasing than chocolate. It’s smooth, sweet taste and luxurious melt-in-your-mouth richness makes chocolate a treat that delights the senses and evokes feelings of comfort and joy.
Unfortunately, the production of chocolate is under attack. Specifically, the farms in West Africa, where 70% of the cocoa pod, the primary ingredient in chocolate, is grown, face threats from the impact of illegal mining, often referred to as “galamsey.”
One of the warriors fighting to protect cocoa farmers and educate local leaders is a Franciscan Friar from Ghana, Fr. Joseph Blay, OFM Conv.
In Ghana, particularly in the Jema community of the Aowin in the Western North Region, Fr. Joe has been instrumental in combating illegal mining activities. Through education and advocacy, he has mobilized local residents to resist the environmental degradation caused by illegal mining practices. His efforts have led the community to reject substantial bribes aimed at permitting illegal mining operations.
“Galamsey or mining is not like building the Akosombo Dam,” said Fr. Joe, who is a native of Jema. “The dam was something of national interest, going to serve the whole nation. But here, all those who are mining are just (pursuing) individual selfish needs.”
Fr. Joe emphasizes the importance of community involvement in environmental protection, advocating for zoning systems to regulate mining activities and preserve natural resources.
“The community has the power,” he said. “The irony is that the mining companies say they are bringing work to the youth and the youth say we have work. But our work is cocoa and the mining work is serving somebody’s selfish interest.”
Mining activities often involve clearing large swathes of land, leading to deforestation. The removal of tree cover affects local microclimates, which are crucial for growing cocoa. The crop requires shade and consistent rainfall. Furthermore, mining pollutes water sources with mercury and other harmful chemicals, making it unsuitable for irrigation and harming biodiversity.
The social and economic implications are equally troubling. Farmers whose land is seized or rendered infertile, lose their primary source of income, pushing them into poverty. Additionally, the lucrative allure of illegal mining draws labor away from cocoa farming.
“The threat of illegal mining is beyond Ghana because it is against sustainable development goals,” concluded Fr Joe. In addition to this work, Fr. Joe has served in Rome as Delegate General for Justice, Peace and Integrity for Creation. He has also worked with the Companions to secure funding for critical medical equipment donated to a clinic he started in Jema. Currently, he is working with the Companions to educate six young women for careers in professions like nursing, medicine, and engineering.