Accra: Alhaji Collins Dauda, Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Lands and Natural Resources, has proposed the permanent deployment of military units to forest reserves to deter illegal miners. He believes that this strategy could effectively protect water bodies and forest reserves after other governmental approaches have failed.
According to Ghana News Agency, Alhaji Dauda discussed this recommendation following a two-day visit to the Newmont Ahafo South Mine and Newmont Ahafo North Project sites in the Ahafo Region. The visit, organized by the Ghana Chamber of Mines, allowed the Parliamentary Committee to become more familiar with the operations of these mines, aiming to enhance legislative efforts in positioning mining as a developmental catalyst.
Alhaji Dauda emphasized that the government cannot tackle illegal mining alone and urged stakeholders to actively participate in the fight. He acknowledged that while Newmont has made contributions toward combatting galamsey, more efforts are needed to prevent environmental destruction in local communities.
Mr. Alex Kofi Annin, General Manager of Newmont Ahafo South Mine, highlighted the national challenge posed by illegal mining, which endangers lives and safety. He expressed concern about the risks illegal miners face and urged them to avoid active mining areas to prevent accidents.
Mr. Ahmed Nantogmah, acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, reiterated the Chamber's commitment to advocating for responsible mining practices. He stressed the importance of the new parliament understanding mining operations to facilitate informed discussions on the sector's challenges and progress.
