Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammad, Ghana’s Minister of Environment, has compared illegal mining (galamsey) to terrorism and vowed to take decisive action against offenders, regardless of political affiliations. He emphasizes the moral imperative to combat this challenge and urges public involvement. The government plans to provide alternative livelihoods for former illegal miners and will revoke mining licenses issued after December 7, 2024, while aiming to heighten public awareness of the issue.
Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammad, the Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, has characterized illegal mining, commonly known as “galamsey,” as an act of terrorism. He has pledged the government’s firm resolve to take action against all individuals involved, regardless of their political ties. “We will not spare anyone involved in this evil, including our NDC members caught in this act,” he stated at a news conference in Accra.
During his address, Dr. Muhammad urged all Ghanaians to participate actively in the fight against illegal mining, emphasizing that it is a moral obligation to safeguard the lives of citizens. His remarks came in light of an interim report by an 18-member Working Committee established by the government to examine the small-scale mining licensing regime and propose strategies to combat the illegal mining issue.
Dr. Muhammad highlighted that this struggle is not merely administrative but a moral imperative for survival, acknowledging the severe risks posed by inaction. He observed the complexity of the illegal mining crisis and called for a comprehensive approach to address it, assuring that those exploiting political protections would be identified and held accountable.
To support those previously engaged in galamsey, the Minister mentioned the government’s intention to implement alternative livelihood programs. He also called on civil society organizations and the media to heighten public awareness regarding the threats posed by illegal mining. Furthermore, he underscored the significance of adopting sound environmental practices to protect the nation’s water bodies and forest reserves.
Additionally, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Mr. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, announced the revocation of all small-scale mining licenses issued after December 7, 2024. To facilitate this, a Technical Review Committee has been formed to audit existing small-scale mining licenses, with a two-month timeline for validation. Non-compliance will result in the automatic loss of licenses, according to Mr. Buah.
The government’s strong stance against illegal mining, equated with terrorism by Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammad, underscores the urgent need to protect Ghanaian lives and the environment. Continuous public engagement and the provision of alternative livelihoods will be essential in addressing this complex issue. Moreover, strict enforcement of regulations surrounding mining licenses is pivotal in curbing illegal activities in the sector.
Original Source: www.ghanabusinessnews.com
