The Information Ministry has reiterated the government's commitment to addressing the pressing issue of illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey. In a recent statement, the Ministry emphasised that the government is determined to work closely with all relevant stakeholders to find sustainable solutions to the environmental and socio-economic challenges posed by galamsey activities. This follows President Akufo-Addo's meeting with Organised Labour on Thursday, October 3 following a threat by worker unions to embark on a strike on October 10 if action is not taken to stop illegal mining.
The impact of illegal mining on water bodies, farmlands, and forest reserves has become a national concern, and the government has intensified efforts to combat this menace.
Key among these efforts is the government's approach to inclusivity. By engaging traditional authorities, local communities, environmentalists, and mining companies, the government aims to foster collaborative solutions that will address both the environmental degradation and the economic hardship that drives many into illegal mining. The Ministry noted that building trust among these groups is crucial, as past interventions have not achieved the desired results due to a lack of cooperation and conflicting interests.
The government is also prioritizing sustainable mining practices that balance economic development with environmental preservation. Through its regulatory agencies, it is working on reforms to ensure that legal small-scale mining is properly monitored and that those who wish to engage in mining do so responsibly.