Shatta Wale fires back after being accused of galamsey.
Ghanaian dancehall artist Shatta Wale has found himself at the center of controversy after pictures surfaced online, allegedly showing him involved in illegal mining activities, commonly known as "galamsey," in the Ashanti Region.
The images, which reportedly depict Shatta Wale owning a mining site and engaging in destructive mining practices, have sparked widespread outrage among Ghanaians, with many accusing him of contributing to the environmental degradation of the country's forests and water bodies.
The issue of galamsey has been a hot topic in Ghana for years, as it leads to the destruction of farmlands, deforestation, and pollution of water sources. The illegal mining activities have drawn significant criticism, with both the government and environmentalists calling for stricter measures to curb the practice.
As a well-known public figure, Shatta Wale’s alleged involvement in such activities drew sharp criticism from many Ghanaians, who expected more responsibility from the star.
In response to the backlash, Shatta Wale took to his official Twitter account to address the accusations. He confirmed that he owns a mining site in the Ashanti Region but denied engaging in any illegal activities. "Of course, I have a mining site in the Ashanti Region. But I paid $1 million for a certificate and license. Nobody can do me anything because I have all the necessary documents to do mining," Shatta Wale tweeted.
His statement implied that he is operating legally and within the framework of Ghanaian law. However, many Ghanaians remain unconvinced, questioning the environmental impact of his operations regardless of whether he holds the required licenses.
Social media reactions have been mixed, with some defending the artist, arguing that as long as his operations are legal, he should not face backlash. Others believe that, legal or not, the ethical implications of mining and its environmental costs should be considered, particularly from a public figure of his stature.
The debate has opened up larger conversations about the responsibilities of celebrities in Ghana and the ongoing fight against galamsey. While Shatta Wale maintains that his mining activities are above board, the controversy surrounding his involvement highlights the tension between economic interests and environmental conservation in Ghana.
