Accra: The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Mr. Armah-Kofi Buah, has appealed to the media to spearhead efforts in making the fight against illegal mining, also known as galamsey, a national priority. He emphasized the severe threat posed to Ghana's forest reserves and water bodies, warning that without immediate and collective action, the country's very existence is at stake.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Buah addressed editors in Accra, highlighting the indispensable role of the media in exposing illegal activities and rallying public support. "The media is critical in this battle," he stated, urging their backing to prevent the nation from losing the fight against galamsey. He called for a united front involving traditional leaders, security agencies, politicians, and citizens to combat this issue.
Illegal mining has emerged as one of Ghana's most pressing environmental challenges, causing widespread deforestation and water pollution. The Water Resources Commission has reported alarming turbidity levels in key water sources, complicating treatment processes. The Ghana Water Company has warned that ongoing pollution may force the shutdown of some water treatment plants, jeopardizing clean drinking water for millions.
The environmental damage includes destroyed forests and farmlands, with harmful chemicals like mercury and cyanide poisoning soil and water. Health experts have linked these toxins to increased cases of birth defects, kidney diseases, and respiratory problems.
To tackle these challenges, Mr. Buah outlined key reforms, including decentralizing the licensing process. District-level committees will now review small-scale mining licenses, involving local stakeholders to minimize conflicts and unauthorized dealings. District Chief Executives (DCEs) and expanded District Security Committees (DISEC) will oversee and ensure environmental compliance.
The Minister also announced measures to enhance community involvement in mining, establishing cooperatives for transparent management of activities and funds. Security oversight will be restructured, with regular transfers of district police commanders and intensified military operations to reclaim forest reserves.
The Minerals Commission is deploying digital monitoring systems to track mining operations, aiming to enhance surveillance and prevent illegal activities. Mr. Buah stressed the importance of media advocacy in informing the public and garnering support, stating, "This fight cannot be won in secrecy."
Ghana loses approximately 120,000 hectares of forest annually due to poor practices, illegal mining, and logging. Socially, illegal mining has led to land conflicts and community tensions, with reports of child labor and school dropouts linked to the lure of galamsey earnings.
Despite these challenges, gold remains a cornerstone of Ghana's economy, contributing significantly to foreign exchange, government revenue, and employment. It accounts for over 40% of export revenues and supports thousands of jobs, both directly and indirectly.
Editors commended Mr. Buah's dedication to ending illegal mining and pledged their support for the national cause, advocating for transparency and patriotic collaboration in the anti-galamsey campaign.
