- Farming at the Crossroads: NorvanReports Xspace to Probe How Galamsey Threatens Ghana’s Food Security
Ghana’s food security is under mounting threat as the twin crises of illegal small-scale mining (galamsey) and agricultural market failures collide. Recent reports estimate that over 5,200 hectares of forest reserves and hundreds of hectares of farmlands have been destroyed by galamsey, while the Ministry of Food and Agriculture has confirmed that more than 100,000 tonnes of grain remain unsold from the 2024 harvest.
Against this backdrop, NorvanReports will host its next Xspace Conversation on the theme: “Farming at the Crossroads: How Galamsey Threatens Ghana’s Farmlands and Food Security.” The live discussion comes off on Sunday, 28th September 2025, at 7:00 PM GMT on @NorvanReports.
The conversation will be moderated by Norvan Acquah-Hayford, Managing Editor of NorvanReports, and will feature an expert panel:
- Mr. Abdul Karim Mohammed, Coordinator, Economic Governance Platform
- Mr. Bismark Owusu Nortey, Acting Executive Director, Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana (PFAG)
- Dr. Kojo Ahiakpa, Senior Policy and Research Advisor, Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana
The Xspace will explore the devastating impact of galamsey on farmland and water bodies, the paradox of food surpluses rotting unsold, and the wider implications for Ghana’s economy and livelihoods.
“Illegal mining is eating into our breadbasket, and at the same time farmers cannot sell their harvests. We risk pushing Ghana into a cycle of dependence on food imports if urgent solutions are not found,” said Norvan Acquah-Hayford ahead of the event.
The 90-minute programme will give participants the chance to engage directly with experts, share concerns, and debate practical solutions. Key focus areas will include enforcement failures, farmer survival strategies, market reforms, and how agribusiness can help turn the tide.
With food security increasingly at the heart of Ghana’s economic and social stability, this Xspace promises to be a timely and thought-provoking conversation.
Join the conversation on Sunday, 28th September 2025 at 7:00 PM GMT, only on @NorvanReports.
