Atik Mohammed recently expressed his disappointment with President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s handling of illegal mining, commonly referred to as ‘galamsey’. During his appearance on Peace FM’s Kokrokoo morning show, the former General Secretary of the People’s National Convention (PNC) highlighted the severe environmental damage caused by galamsey operations, particularly in mining communities where water bodies are being polluted and ecosystems destroyed. Atik underscored that despite the government’s public promises to combat this issue, the actual commitment to addressing the crisis appears lacking. He believes the government’s actions fail to match its rhetoric, indicating a disconnect between what is said and what is done regarding the illegal mining operations.
Atik went on to call for a comprehensive prohibition on small-scale mining, as he argued that it is virtually indistinguishable from galamsey activities. He claimed that many small-scale miners conduct their operations illegally, contributing to the broader problem of illegal mining in the country. This stance reflected his conviction that the legal framework surrounding small-scale mining is failing, thus exacerbating the galamsey crisis. By advocating for a ban, Atik aimed to challenge the government to take decisive action against all forms of mining that are detrimental to the environment and public health.
The critique from Atik Mohammed also revolved around the broader implications of the government’s approach to galamsey. He characterized the administration’s efforts as insufficient and half-hearted, contending that both President Akufo-Addo and his cabinet exhibit a lack of genuine resolve to combat the illegal mining issue effectively. According to Atik, the government’s current strategies and policies have not adequately addressed the rampant nature of galamsey, leading to ongoing environmental degradation. This underlines a potential failure of leadership in prioritizing the protection of the country’s natural resources and the well-being of its citizens.
As the galamsey crisis continues to pose significant challenges, Atik’s criticisms highlight the urgent need for the government to adopt more rigorous and comprehensive measures. His assessment suggests that without a complete ban and a concerted effort to root out illegal mining practices, the ongoing destruction of the environment and vital water resources will persist. The conversation he initiated during the radio show calls for a more proactive stance from the government, emphasizing that the health of the nation’s ecosystems should take precedence over any short-term economic gains from mining activities.
Furthermore, Atik’s remarks also raised questions about the government’s accountability and its responsiveness to the mounting public concern regarding galamsey. As various stakeholders advocate for cleaner and more sustainable practices in resource extraction, the expectation is that the government should actively engage with these issues and promote policies that reflect a commitment to environmental stewardship. The public’s growing awareness and activism surrounding the galamsey crisis imply a pressing need for government accountability, as well as greater transparency in how mining regulations are enforced.
Ultimately, Atik Mohammed’s critique serves as a call to action for both the government and the public in addressing the chaos wrought by illegal mining. By underscoring the destructive impact of galamsey and questioning the current administration’s dedication to resolving this issue, he paves the way for a renewed dialogue about responsible mining practices that can protect Ghana’s natural resources for future generations. The commitment to enforcing stricter regulations and ensuring sustainable practices will be vital for safeguarding the environment and ensuring the livelihoods of communities affected by mining activities.
