Illegal mining, also known as “galamsey” in Ghana, is a serious problem with effects on the environment, society, and economy.
The government made several attempts to solve this problem, but none of them were successful. To combat galamsey, there have been initiatives such as “Operation Vanguard,” task force. Although they also had an impact on legitimate miners, temporary prohibitions were put in place to stop the activity but all to no avail.
Additionally, the community has participated in sensitization initiatives meant to draw attention to the dangers of the activities. There are complicit officials and law enforcement agencies. The lack of resources and manpower to keep an eye on these mining operations is another issue.
Surprisingly, local resistance appears to be another problem, as communities frequently defend illegal miners because of their economic reliance on them.
Ghana’s illicit mining problem calls for a diversified strategy. As a result, the president-elect John Dramani Mahama has laid out a thorough plan to stop these activities. Among his pledges are:
Comprehensive Audit of Mining Concessions: Mahama plans to conduct a thorough audit of all mining concessions and their ownership. This initiative aims to hold concession holders accountable for any illegal mining activities occurring on their lands.
Prohibition of Official Involvement in Mining: He has pledged to enforce a strict prohibition on government officials engaging in both legal and illegal mining activities. This measure seeks to eliminate conflicts of interest and ensure unbiased enforcement of mining regulations.
Support for Small-Scale Miners: Mahama intends to implement policies that support small-scale miners by providing training in sustainable and environmentally friendly mining practices. This approach aims to balance economic benefits with environmental preservation.
Repeal of Laws Allowing Mining in Forest Reserves: He has expressed his commitment to repealing laws that permit mining in forest reserves, addressing concerns over environmental degradation and the contamination of water sources.
Swift Action Against Illegal Mining: Mahama has assured that, he will take full responsibility and implement decisive measures to address the illegal mining menace, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
We Can Better The Lives Of Our People— Incoming President John Mahama Tells Togo’s Leader
Combat Corruption: Establish strict anti-corruption measures within enforcement agencies and prosecute officials involved in illegal mining activities.
Land Reclamation: John Mahama has pledged to prioritize the reclamation of degraded lands to restore their agricultural or ecological value. He said, he will also invest in the restoration of polluted water bodies to ensure access to clean water for affected communities.
Access to Credit: Offer financial support to legal small-scale miners to reduce dependency on illegal operations.
Digital Gold Trading: Establish platforms for tracking gold sales to ensure legal exports.
Mercury-Free Technologies: Encourage the adoption of mercury-free gold processing techniques.
These and other initiatives which includes placing dedicated and qualified individuals in key positions related to mining and natural resources and establishing platforms for tracking gold sales to ensure legal exports reflect President John Mahama’s commitment to tackling the challenges posed by illegal mining, aiming to protect Ghana’s natural resources while supporting sustainable economic activities.
