Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammad, Ghana’s Minister, has declared galamsey, illegal mining, as akin to terrorism. He asserts that no one will be spared from repercussions, regardless of political affiliation. The government is undertaking efforts to combat the issue while providing alternative livelihoods for involved individuals. The revocation of licenses granted post-December 7, 2024, has also been announced as part of this initiative.
Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammad, the Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, has equated the illegal mining practice known as “galamsey” to terrorism. He affirmed the government’s commitment to address this issue with severity, stating that individuals involved, regardless of their political affiliations, will not be spared, including members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
At a news conference in Accra, the Minister emphasised that the fight against illegal mining is a collective moral responsibility for all Ghanaians, aimed at preserving lives and safeguarding the environment. This statement follows an interim report from an 18-member Working Committee tasked with evaluating the current small-scale mining licensing system and proposing solutions to the galamsey problem.
Dr. Muhammad indicated that the battle against illegal mining poses a challenge that necessitates a comprehensive and collaborative strategy. He reassured that no one engaging in these harmful activities under the guise of political protection will remain hidden. Moreover, he mentioned that the government intends to implement alternative livelihood programs for those previously involved in illegal mining to facilitate their transition.
Furthermore, the Minister called upon civil society organizations and the media to play an active role in raising awareness about the dangers associated with galamsey. He highlighted the importance of adopting best environmental practices to protect the nation’s water bodies and forest reserves.
In related developments, Mr. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, announced the revocation of all small-scale mining licenses granted after December 7, 2024. A Technical Review Committee has been established to assess and validate existing small-scale mining licenses within a two-month period, with strict consequences for non-compliance.
In conclusion, the Ghanaian government, led by Ministers Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammad and Mr. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, is firmly addressing the threat of illegal mining, or galamsey, characterizing it as a severe threat to national security and public health. The commitment to not spare anyone involved signifies a serious approach to dismantling this illicit activity and safeguarding the environment. Through comprehensive strategies and community involvement, the government aims to reduce the impact of illegal mining in Ghana.
Original Source: www.ghanabusinessnews.com
