Cape Coast, Ghana – Augustina Entsua-Mensah, an MPhil candidate at the University of Cape Coast’s Department of Communication Studies, is championing the use of storytelling as a transformative tool in Ghana’s battle against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.

In a compelling feature titled “Message in a Mine,” Entsua-Mensah argues that while laws and enforcement are vital, the power of narrative remains underutilized in efforts to combat environmental destruction and community harm caused by galamsey.

“At its heart, storytelling taps into something profoundly human… It builds empathy, simplifies complexity, and invites participation,” she wrote.

Drawing from Ghana’s rich oral traditions, the researcher underscores the importance of centering local voices—such as affected farmers, fishers, and youth—in radio segments, theatre, and digital media to humanize the cost of illegal mining. She highlights the emotional power of real-life stories like that of Ama, a mother whose livelihood and family health have been devastated by polluted rivers.

Entsua-Mensah calls for blending traditional formats like puppet shows with modern digital storytelling tools, including mobile apps and social media campaigns. She also proposes integrating storytelling into school curricula and supporting community theatre as platforms for public education and dialogue.

“Each story can end with a clear call to action… Whether it’s joining a patrol group, planting trees, or signing a petition,” she wrote.

Despite challenges like intimidation of activists and limited tech access in rural areas, Entsua-Mensah believes storytelling can foster a culture of environmental responsibility, accountability, and collective action.

Her message is clear: “Ghana’s gold is precious, but so is the life that courses through her rivers and soil. Through storytelling, we can protect both.”