The fight against illegal mining, or “galamsey” as it is locally known in Ghana, has been a persistent challenge for successive governments. The environmental degradation and economic losses associated with this illicit activity have prompted renewed efforts to curb its spread. Recent pronouncements and actions by the John Mahama-led administration suggest a heightened commitment to tackling this complex issue. Captain (Retired) John Kwame Jabari, the Acting Ashanti Regional Security Coordinator, has voiced confidence in the government’s resolve, citing President Mahama’s direct warnings to political appointees and party members against involvement in galamsey. This assertive stance, coupled with recent arrests and pending prosecutions of illegal mining operators in the Ashanti Region, signals a potentially significant shift in the government’s approach.
The detrimental impact of illegal mining on Ghana’s environment cannot be overstated. Water bodies, once sources of life and livelihood, are polluted with heavy metals and sediment, rendering them unsafe for drinking and harming aquatic life. Forests, crucial for biodiversity and climate regulation, are decimated to make way for mining operations, leading to habitat loss and increased risk of soil erosion. The economic consequences are equally dire, with lost revenue from legitimate mining operations and the added burden on the government to remediate polluted environments. President Mahama’s commitment to auditing mining concessions and identifying their beneficial owners aims to introduce greater transparency and accountability in the mining sector, addressing a key loophole that has facilitated illegal activities.
The government’s strategy to combat illegal mining appears multi-pronged, combining law enforcement actions with collaborative initiatives. Captain Jabari highlighted the involvement of various security agencies, including the Police, Military, Immigration Service, and Minerals Commission, in enforcing mining regulations. He emphasized the importance of inter-agency cooperation and the availability of adequate resources to effectively protect water bodies and forests. This coordinated approach seeks to create a robust security presence in mining areas, deterring illegal activities and ensuring that those who flout the law are apprehended and prosecuted.
The government’s strategy also incorporates collaboration with local communities and stakeholders in the mining sector. Engaging local police and small-scale miners is seen as crucial for effective monitoring and enforcement. Captain Jabari underscored the importance of partnership with these groups in ensuring adherence to mining regulations. This community-based approach aims to foster a sense of shared responsibility in protecting the environment and promoting sustainable mining practices. The involvement of local stakeholders can also provide valuable on-the-ground intelligence, aiding in the identification and apprehension of illegal miners.
Further strengthening the collaborative front against illegal mining is the Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners (GNASSM), which has expressed a firm commitment to supporting the government’s efforts. Michael Adu Gyamfi, the Ashanti Regional Secretary of GNASSM, declared the association’s willingness to work alongside security agencies in combating illegal mining. He emphasized the importance of responsible mining practices and warned that any association member found engaging in illegal activities would face consequences, including public exposure and arrest. This proactive stance by GNASSM demonstrates a crucial shift within the small-scale mining sector, recognizing the long-term benefits of sustainable practices over short-term gains from illicit operations.
The combination of government action, inter-agency cooperation, community involvement, and the collaboration of industry stakeholders presents a comprehensive approach to tackling the long-standing problem of illegal mining in Ghana. The emphasis on strengthening law enforcement, promoting responsible mining practices, and holding perpetrators accountable signifies a renewed commitment to protecting the environment and ensuring the sustainable development of the mining sector. The success of these initiatives will depend on sustained political will, effective implementation, and ongoing dialogue between all stakeholders. The stated commitment of the Mahama administration, coupled with the active participation of organizations like GNASSM, offers a glimmer of hope that the fight against illegal mining can gain significant ground, preserving Ghana’s natural resources and ensuring a more sustainable future for its people.
