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President John Mahama states that Ghana’s battle against illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, is starting to yield positive outcomes, as some formerly contaminated water bodies are slowly becoming cleaner.
He stated that even though the fight has been challenging and occasionally perilous for enforcement teams, ongoing efforts by state agencies and community organizations are beginning to show results.
During the 77th Annual New Year School at the University of Ghana, President Mahama praised the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), the Environmental Protection Agency, and additional partners for their dedication to addressing the issue.
“It has so entered the fabric of our people that it’s not been an easy fight,” the President noted, pointing to instances where communities have mobilised to resist enforcement operations.
Despite the challenges, President Mahama urged the various enforcement agencies not to relent, stressing that visible progress is already being made.
“There are some positive results beginning to show. I want to encourage the task force, the Minister, the EPA, and all those involved in the fight against illegal mining, please don’t give up.”
The President described a visit to Crown Forest and used a personal observation to highlight the effects of recent actions.
“When you go to where they have the animals, you cross a stream. And before we cross the bridge, I asked them, which river is this? They said it was the Ayensu River,” he explained.
“And they said, if you had come here six months ago, this water was the colour of coffee. They say now is the colour of light milo. And so, and so it’s getting better. And so we appreciate the work that NIAMOS and the river guards are doing.”
He stated that the enhancement stemmed from ongoing upstream efforts by NAIMOS and river guards who intervened to halt illegal mining operations at the river’s source.
President Mahama stated that the administration is enhancing enforcement through more extensive environmental and climate-oriented policies.
“We’re adopting eco-friendly mining methods, safeguarding forests and waterways, investing in renewable energy resources, and enhancing climate resilience for at-risk communities,” he remarked.
He urged for increased determination, stating that the slow recovery of rivers such as the Ayensu should inspire greater efforts to combat galamsey and safeguard Ghana’s natural resources for the future.
Source: Ghanatodayonline.com
