The Ghana government has declared war on illegal mining, also known as galamsey, with the Minister for Defense, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, empowering the military to take decisive action against the menace. In a recent operation in the Western Region, the Ghana Armed Forces uncovered and dismantled a concealed illegal mining settlement housing over 10,000 people.
The defense minister emphasized that the era of rhetoric is over, and the government’s approach will now focus on tangible results. “We’ll talk less and let action and outcomes guide us,” he stated, highlighting a renewed focus on decisive enforcement. This shift in approach signals the government’s commitment to protecting Ghana’s environment and natural resources.
Dr. Boamah appealed to illegal miners to withdraw from protected areas, urging them to “leave the forest reserves and water bodies. Save your lives. Save the environment.” He emphasized the long-term harm caused by illegal mining, not only to human lives but also to the natural ecosystem. The Minister’s appeal is a call to action for those involved in galamsey to reconsider their activities.
The Ghana Armed Forces have been fully empowered to confront the galamsey menace, with the needed political will and authority to carry out their mandate effectively. “The Ghana Armed Forces has been empowered. We have the needed political will,” Dr. Boamah declared. This development demonstrates the government’s readiness to take all necessary actions to protect Ghana’s environment and natural resources.
The government’s crackdown on galamsey is a welcome move, given the devastating impact of illegal mining on Ghana’s environment and economy. The operation in the Western Region is just the beginning, and it remains to be seen how effective the government’s approach will be in eradicating the menace. Nonetheless, the commitment to action is a step in the right direction.
Story by: Ohemaa Adusi-Poku
