Former Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Baba Jamal, has expressed his deep disappointment over the government’s handling of illegal mining, commonly referred to as “galamsey.” Speaking on Channel One TV’s “The Big Issue,” Jamal criticized the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) for what he sees as poor management that has only worsened the crisis. He accused the government of using the issue for political gain while failing to deliver meaningful solutions.
Jamal emphasized that Ghana has not tackled the galamsey menace effectively, resulting in severe environmental degradation, particularly in rural communities dependent on rivers and forests. He pointed out that the ongoing destruction of water bodies, farmlands, and forests is an indication of the government’s inability to combat illegal mining activities effectively.
Highlighting his frustration, Jamal stated, “Let’s all admit that as a country, we have failed in solving this particular problem (galamsey).” He stressed that the situation has deteriorated under the current administration, pointing out that even President Akufo-Addo has publicly declared that he has put his presidency on the line to combat galamsey. However, Jamal argues that these words have not been backed by decisive action.
Jamal also criticized the government for ignoring suggestions from opposition members on how to address the galamsey issue. “Despite our numerous efforts and suggestions on curbing the problem, the government has failed to take our inputs seriously,” he remarked. He noted that the opposition, alongside civil society groups and environmental activists, had provided several strategies to deal with the problem, yet these suggestions were overlooked, and the crisis has continued unabated.
The former MP went on to accuse the Akufo-Addo administration of making “political capital” out of the galamsey issue without achieving substantial results. He argued that the government’s approach has been characterized by rhetoric and grand promises that have not translated into concrete actions on the ground. Jamal expressed his concerns that while the government makes public declarations about its commitment to fighting illegal mining, its actual measures have been inadequate and ineffective.
Jamal cited various instances where the government’s interventions appeared more symbolic than practical. He mentioned the much-publicized deployment of the military to mining areas, which initially raised hopes but failed to produce sustainable results. “The military operation to fight galamsey was just another political show,” he asserted. According to him, while the military presence created an initial buzz, it did not bring about the desired reduction in illegal mining activities.
Moreover, Jamal pointed to the lack of transparency in the allocation of resources meant to combat galamsey. He claimed that funds allocated for tackling the menace have not been used effectively, resulting in limited impact on the ground. He urged the government to take a more transparent approach and account for how funds and resources meant for anti-galamsey efforts are being utilized.
Environmental groups have also joined in the criticism, with several activists calling for a more comprehensive and coordinated approach to address the galamsey problem. They argue that a mere reliance on forceful measures without addressing the underlying socio-economic factors that drive people into illegal mining will not yield sustainable results.
Jamal underscored the importance of community engagement in the fight against galamsey, advocating for a strategy that involves local communities in decision-making processes. He suggested that communities affected by galamsey should be given a more prominent role in developing and implementing strategies to combat illegal mining. He emphasized that the government should focus on creating alternative livelihood opportunities for those involved in galamsey, many of whom turn to illegal mining due to lack of economic options.
The former Akwatia MP also called on the government to intensify efforts to regulate the small-scale mining sector, which he believes can provide a more sustainable solution to the problem. He proposed the introduction of stricter licensing regulations and enforcement mechanisms to ensure that small-scale miners operate within legal boundaries and adopt environmentally friendly practices.
In conclusion, Jamal reiterated his stance that Ghana has failed to address the galamsey menace effectively, and the current government’s approach has only exacerbated the crisis. He urged the government to stop politicizing the issue and work collaboratively with all stakeholders to find a lasting solution. “We need a collective effort, not just political rhetoric, to solve this problem,” he stressed.
Jamal’s comments come at a time when many Ghanaians are becoming increasingly frustrated with the ongoing galamsey activities and their devastating impact on the environment and livelihoods. His remarks serve as a stark reminder of the need for a more transparent, inclusive, and sustainable approach to tackling one of Ghana’s most pressing environmental challenges.
