The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting sustainable and legal mining practices in Ghana. In a statement issued on Wednesday, September 11, the ministry emphasized that responsible mining remains a top priority, aiming to protect the environment and ensure the well-being of communities affected by mining activities.
The statement highlighted the government’s intensified efforts to combat illegal mining, commonly referred to as “galamsey,” under the current administration. These efforts have become increasingly urgent following rising calls from various groups demanding immediate action to curb the environmental destruction caused by galamsey operations.
On Wednesday, September 11, Organised Labour, led by the Trades Union Congress (TUC), issued a strong ultimatum to the government. In a statement, Joshua Ansah, Secretary General of the TUC, warned that a nationwide strike would be initiated by the end of September if the government fails to address the growing galamsey crisis. Organised Labour demanded the immediate declaration of a state of emergency in areas heavily impacted by illegal mining.
Additionally, they called for a halt to all forms of mining in forest reserves, the establishment of special courts to expedite the prosecution of galamsey operators, and the deployment of military forces to remove and destroy all mining equipment in affected areas. Ansah criticized the government’s inaction, stating that the ongoing illegal mining activities have led to severe environmental degradation, including the destruction of rivers, farmlands, and forest reserves.
He warned that if concrete measures are not implemented by the end of September, Organised Labour will embark on a series of protests and a nationwide strike to push the government into action. The growing pressure from various groups, including Organised Labour, has intensified the call for the government to take decisive action against galamsey, which continues to threaten Ghana’s natural resources and the livelihoods of its people.
The government’s stance, as reiterated by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, reflects a continued commitment to sustainable development in the mining sector. However, the increasing urgency of demands from organized groups underscores the need for more proactive measures to tackle the galamsey menace effectively and safeguard Ghana’s environment and communities.
