Illegal gold mining, commonly known as Galamsey, continues to pose a significant threat to Ghana’s natural environment and water resources, raising concerns about the impact of climate change.
The use of heavy machinery such as excavators and bulldozers has exacerbated the problem, causing destruction to the country’s ecosystem.
To address this issue, President Akufo Addo established an Inter-Ministerial Committee to reform artisanal and small-scale mining in the country. The committee, commissioned in March 2017, was tasked with clamping down on illegal mining through military interventions. As a result, several individuals, including Chinese nationals, have been arrested, with their equipment confiscated for engaging in illegal mining activities.
Despite these efforts, Member of Parliament for Prestea-Huni Valley, Robert Wisdom Cudjoe, criticized President Akufo-Addo for failing to abolish illegal mining activities. In an interview on Onua FM Etifi Nsem show, Cudjoe described the Inter-Ministerial Committee and ‘Galamstop’ as a scam, claiming that impounded excavators, vehicles, and gold were either sold or shared among committee members.
Cudjoe expressed concern that the committee’s actions have only worsened the situation, pushing small-scale miners out of business to make way for party members and government officials. He urged for immediate action to prevent further destruction caused by illegal mining activities, particularly in the Western Region, to safeguard the environment and fiscal activities.
It is evident that illegal gold mining remains a pressing issue in Ghana, and concerted efforts are needed to address this ongoing threat to the country’s natural resources.
