The Coalition of Anti-Galamsey Executives has called for urgent and decisive action against illegal mining, commonly known as “galamsey,” and demanded a thorough investigation into mining companies with political affiliations.
Representatives from the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining, Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey and Senyo Hosi, voiced these critical concerns to the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources.
During a meeting with the Minister, the Coalition raised several key issues, including the need to probe how illegal miners acquire firearms and to address the security threats posed by their operations.
They also urged the declaration of a state of emergency for nine forest reserves significantly impacted by illegal mining.
Dr. Ashigbey emphasized that the involvement of high-profile politicians has undermined the fight against galamsey.
He argued that holding these influential individuals accountable is crucial for the government’s success in combating the issue. “Unless these influential figures are brought to justice, the fight against galamsey will remain an uphill battle,” he stated.
In addition to demanding accountability, Dr. Ashigbey proposed an urgent roundtable discussion to address the root causes of galamsey, deliberate on potential solutions, and involve the public in the process. He stressed the importance of a collaborative approach involving all stakeholders to effectively tackle the crisis.
Senyo Hosi echoed these concerns, urging the Minister for swift action and the fostering of public engagement. “We need active participation, starting with monitoring the turbidity levels of our water bodies. Honest reviews of the situation and transparent communication are crucial to keeping the public informed and involved,” he added.
He reaffirmed the Coalition’s impartial support for Ghana in the fight against galamsey, stating, “Our support is impartial; we stand for Ghana, not for any political party. We are fully committed to assisting the President in the fight against galamsey.”
However, he noted the Coalition needs more information on ongoing efforts to effectively support the government and help communicate progress to the public.
In a separate interview on JoyNews‘ The Probe, Dr. Ashigbey reiterated the urgent need to reclaim Ghana’s lands and forest reserves from illegal miners and called for a state of emergency to combat the crisis effectively.
He argued that politically exposed individuals involved in illegal mining must be dealt with decisively. Dr. Ashigbey highlighted the increasing boldness of illegal miners, referencing incidents where journalists were attacked and their equipment destroyed even with police present. “These are not people we can deal with using kid gloves.
This is a war that has been waged on us. We need to unleash the full force of our military,” he asserted. He specifically called for the deployment of the Air Force for reconnaissance, the Navy to secure water bodies, and the Army for ground action.
Dr. Ashigbey warned that if illegal miners gain control of forest reserves, they could expand their influence over entire districts, posing a severe national security threat. “This is beyond an environmental issue—it’s a security matter. If we do not act now, these criminals will take over more territories and control whatever resources they find,” he cautioned.
The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, welcomed the Coalition and commended their dedication to the cause.
He outlined the government’s ongoing initiatives, which include engagements with key stakeholders, seizures of equipment, some arrests, and the reclamation of some forest reserves.
Mr. Buah also revealed upcoming measures such as the Blue Water Initiative, which involves the recruitment and training of River Guards, and the Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative, aimed at rehabilitating areas degraded by illegal mining.
To ensure a unified approach, the government plans to decentralize the fight against galamsey by involving Regional Security agency heads, District Chief Executives (DCEs), Regional Ministers, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Ministry of Environment, Science, and Technology. “We cannot do this alone, so we are getting all hands on deck,” the Minister stated.
He further disclosed that his team has gathered significant information to address issues surrounding mining licenses and that a rigorous inspection regime will be implemented to review and revoke licenses of companies involved in illegal activities. “This process will help weed out bad actors,” he added.
Mr. Buah assured the Coalition of the government’s commitment to resolving the crisis but emphasized the need for collective support, urging them to “Help us, work with us, and give us the time and opportunity to deliver effective results.”
