Independent presidential candidate, Alan Kyerematen, has unveiled a detailed 10-point plan aimed at eradicating illegal mining (galamsey) in Ghana.
Alongside his running mate, Kwame Owusu Danso (KOD), and other senior members of the Afrafranto Alliance, Kyerematen at a press conference held at the Ghana International Press Centre, outlined an ambitious blueprint to address the environmental and socio-economic crises caused by galamsey.
Speaking on Sunday, 29th September 2024, Kyerematen described galamsey as an “existential threat” to the nation, highlighting the destruction of water bodies, forest reserves, and farmlands. He pointed to decades of poor governance by both the NPP and NDC governments as the root of the problem.
“The two dominant political parties have demonstrated that they neither have the competence, desire, nor political will to address galamsey,” Kyerematen stated.
Here are the 10 key ways Alan Kyerematen seeks to end galamsey:
- One-Year Ban on All Small-Scale and Community Mining
The cornerstone of Kyerematen’s plan is a one-year complete moratorium on all small-scale and community mining activities, both legal and illegal. This pause will provide time to assess and reset the country’s mining practices. - Demobilization of Mining Machinery
To enforce the ban, Kyerematen proposes the demobilization of all mining machinery, which will be inventoried and stored by the military’s 48 Engineer’s Regiment. This ensures that illegal mining operations are halted immediately. - Aggressive Restoration Campaign
During the one-year ban, there will be a focus on restoring Ghana’s degraded river bodies and farmlands. The Water Resources Commission, Environmental Protection Agency, and other relevant agencies will lead this massive clean-up effort. - Plantation Development Initiative
The forestry sector will spearhead a plantation development initiative aimed at rejuvenating damaged ecosystems. Kyerematen emphasized that land must be fully restored before any mining activities can resume. - Cancellation of Small-Scale Mining Licenses
Kyerematen’s plan includes the cancellation of all small-scale mining licenses issued in the last 15 years. He calls for a comprehensive audit to uncover corruption, illegal issuance, and non-compliance with regulations. “We must correct the errors of the past to build a sustainable future,” he remarked. - Youth in Responsible Mining Initiative
Kyerematen envisions a shift toward responsible mining practices, particularly through the creation of a Youth in Responsible Mining Initiative. This program will help transform young people previously involved in galamsey into legal, environmentally-conscious miners. These youth-owned companies will receive seed funding, mining equipment, concessions, and technical support from the government. - Citizens Mining Protection Rights Groups
Kyerematen proposes the establishment of Citizens Mining Protection Rights Groups in mining communities. These groups will act as watchdogs to ensure that mining activities are conducted responsibly and that environmental standards are upheld. - Life Imprisonment for Mining in River Bodies and Forest Reserves
One of the strictest measures in Kyerematen’s plan is the introduction of legislation that would impose life imprisonment for anyone found guilty of mining in river bodies or forest reserves. “The stakes are too high to allow leniency,” Kyerematen insisted. - Comprehensive Review of Natural Resource Management Legislation
As part of his broader Great Transformational Plan (GTP), Kyerematen intends to undertake a comprehensive review of all legislation governing natural resource management. This will include streamlining regulatory agencies to ensure efficiency. - Transforming Ghana into a Mineral Processing Hub
Kyerematen’s long-term vision includes transforming Ghana into a mineral processing hub for West Africa. This would not only help regulate mining practices but also boost the economy through value-added mineral processing.
In concluding his address, Kyerematen called on all Ghanaians to rally behind his vision, pledging that his government would leave no stone unturned in eradicating galamsey.
“Together, we will end this menace and build a sustainable future for our children,” he vowed.
With these comprehensive reforms, Alan Kyerematen is confident that Ghana can overcome the galamsey crisis and restore its natural environment. “We have the resources, the will, and the plan to make Ghana great again,” he said.