Story by, Paul Mensah Nsor
Accra, Ghana - In a major crackdown on illegal mining, the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) and the Blue Water Guards have launched simultaneous operations across two regions, dismantling illegal mining sites and seizing heavy machinery.
The operations, which began on Monday, October 13, targeted illegal mining sites in the Eastern and Western regions, resulting in significant seizures and arrests. NAIMOS operatives stormed illegal mining sites in Oda Nkwanta, Birim Central Municipality, and Akanteng-Asamankese area, uncovering active sites destroying cocoa farms and contaminating tributaries of the River Birim.
The task forces seized several items, including:
Three excavators: Abandoned by miners fleeing the scene.
Five motorbikes: Confiscated from illegal miners.
Several other items: Including excavator batteries and computer monitors.
Pumping machines and tools: Destroyed and seized in various operations.
The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources outlined a four-pillar strategy to tackle illegal mining, commonly known as "galamsey" in Ghana. The pillars include:
Stakeholder Engagement: Engaging with local communities, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders to raise awareness about the dangers of illegal mining and promote responsible mining practices.
Regulatory Reform: Strengthening the licensing regime and monitoring mechanisms to ensure that only properly registered miners operate within the law.
Law Enforcement: Collaborating with law enforcement agencies to clamp down on unlicensed operators and protect legally compliant miners.
Sustainable Livelihood Alternatives: Providing alternative livelihoods for communities dependent on illegal mining, including training and support in agriculture, agro-processing, and other vocational ventures.
The operations continued on subsequent days, with fresh offensives at Old Abirem, Kyenkyenku, and the Oboho Forest Reserve. Officers disabled and destroyed several excavators, heavy-duty water pumps, and fuel drums.
Officials from NAIMOS and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources emphasized that these operations are part of a renewed nationwide effort to reclaim Ghana's environment from illegal mining syndicates and restore the health of rivers, forests, and farmlands.
The government's commitment to combating illegal mining is evident in the scale and scope of these operations. By targeting illegal mining sites and seizing equipment, authorities aim to protect the environment and promote responsible mining practices.
Ghana's fight against illegal mining involves a multi-faceted approach, including:
Enforcement: Strengthening law enforcement and task forces to crack down on illegal mining.
Regulatory Reforms: Reviewing and strengthening laws governing mining activities.
Community Engagement: Working with local communities to promote responsible mining practices.
Environmental Restoration: Restoring degraded lands and waterways.
The government's efforts to combat illegal mining are crucial for protecting Ghana's natural resources and promoting sustainable development. By working together, authorities can ensure that mining activities benefit local communities and support the country's economic growth.