Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister of Defence, has called for an immediate halt to illegal mining, termed galamsey, due to its threat to Ghana’s forests. He urges individuals to seek proper licensing for mining activities and warns of potential government actions against illegal operations. Environmental groups advocate for strong measures to address the issue, including the destruction of mining equipment.
Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, the Minister of Defence, has issued a firm warning to individuals involved in illegal mining, known as galamsey, urging them to immediately halt such activities. In a Facebook post on March 10, 2025, he emphasized the detrimental impact of illegal mining on Ghana’s forest reserves and appealed to the public to reconcile their patriotism with their faith to protect the environment.
In his message, he stated, “In the name of God and Ghana, stop galamsey! No human being resides in the forest reserves! In the name of God and Ghana, stay away from the forest reserves and galamsey. A word to the wise is enough!” His statements suggest that the government may consider severe actions if illegal mining does not cease.
Furthermore, he requested potential miners to regularize their operations by obtaining the necessary licenses. “Stop galamsey! If you are interested in mining, seek the necessary regulatory permits. We’ll not talk much,” he declared. The issue of galamsey has become increasingly contentious in Ghana and has led to widespread calls for governmental intervention.
The government has previously deployed military personnel to high-risk areas to combat illegal mining. These efforts have included the destruction of mining equipment, including excavators, to deter galamsey operations. Environmental advocacy groups, such as AROCHA Ghana, have emphasized the need for decisive measures, advocating for the burning of excavators as an effective deterrent against illegal mining activities.
In conclusion, the Defence Minister, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, has made a clear and urgent appeal for an end to illegal mining practices in Ghana, highlighting their damaging consequences for forest reserves. He encourages potential miners to obtain the necessary regulatory permits, as the government may take serious measures to confront this issue. The ongoing debate surrounding galamsey reflects the heightened concern for environmental conservation within the nation.
Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com
