It was a typical bustling afternoon when the minister, an unwavering gaze poised for the daunting task ahead, stood to address the myriad of issues plaguing Ghana. His commitment was clear. With unwavering resolve, he revealed significant measures put in place to tackle an old adversary that continues to gnaw at the heart of Ghana’s environmental heritage. This revelation came as part of a sophisticated stratagem aimed squarely at obliterating illegal mining, a creeping blight known locally as galamsey, which persists in wreaking havoc on the nation’s cherished natural landscapes.
On a seemingly ordinary Wednesday, caught in the embrace of early March 2025, the minister took to the podium. The weight of the information he bore was palpable. He spoke candidly about the collaborative review undertaken by a coalition of paramount state machineries tasked with keeping a vigilant eye on the mineral resources of the country. It was within this coalition that uncovering rampant anomalies and flagrant violations in the issuance of recent mining licences unraveled a deeper rot within the regulatory systems—a revelation that both shocked and catalyzed. It begged the question: how long could such negligence persist unnoticed?
“Based on the advice and recommendations of key committees, supported by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Minerals Commission, the Forestry Commission, and the Water Resources Commission, we are proceeding to revoke all licences issued from 7 December onwards,” he declared, the words rolling off his tongue with a fierce determination.
One might ponder, what led to such an unprecedented sweep of action? According to the minister, whether the operations possessed the seemingly all-important EPA clearance or not was now immaterial. “The findings are clear—these licences were rushed through without following due process or adhering to proper procedures,” he added, a subtle hint of defiance layered within his voice.
Seized Galamsey Equipment to be Repurposed
The story, multifaceted and complex, takes an intriguing turn when Mr. Armah-Kofi Buah, in his characteristic assertive demeanor, announced the fate of the equipment confiscated from galamsey sites. Each piece of machinery, now a relic of unlawful activity, was currently secured in police custody with a budding fate of repurposing—an endeavor laden with both logistical challenges and ethical considerations.
“Once it is established that these machines were indeed used in illegal mining, the government will ensure they are put to good use,” he thoughtfully noted. But this revelation invites a reflective pause: What constitutes ‘good use’ in the fragile balance of preserving natural ecosystems and fostering human development?
Forest Reserves Recovered from Illegal Miners
As the narrative evolves, hope mingles with determination. The minister passionately shared that the valiant efforts of the authorities have begun to bear fruit. With a zealous spirit, they had clawed back seven out of nine forest reserves from the clutches of illegal miners. Yet, the battle is far from over.
In his resolve, he assured, “We are on course to reclaim the remaining two from the thugs. The Ministry is actively working with the Attorney General to explore ways to fast-track the prosecution of illegal miners,” a statement that brought the stark contrast of accountability and impunity into sharp focus.
Beyond the podium, the heated corridors of Parliament swirled with debate, tension thick in the air. Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin did not mince words, questioning the government’s genuine commitment toward the eradication of galamsey. He probed with an acuity that cuts through rhetoric—“You, as a cabinet member, are asking me to help you secure funding. Are you truly serious about fighting galamsey?” His words echoed a sentiment shared by many who have long harbored skepticism.
Quick to counter was Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga, his response tinged with the familiar dance of political blame—a cycle of pointing fingers rooted deeply in political narratives. “Why are we where we are today? We are here because you were sitting here as Majority Leader,” he retorted, a reminder that the past is never truly past.
This bold crackdown emerges amidst an ever-growing crescendo of public clamor demanding transparency and resolute action against illegal mining, particularly within the nation’s fragile rivers and forest reserves. Environmental advocates and civil society groups have been tirelessly championing for robust accountability, staunch enforcement, and a visionary yet grounded long-term sustainable solution to the enduring galamsey imbroglio.
The saga is ongoing, unfolding in real-time with all its tensions and triumphs, and scripting a new chapter in Ghana’s quest to safeguard its precious natural legacy.
