Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has emphasized the necessity of a united front in combating illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey.
Addressing the Ghana Mining Vision event organized by the University of Energy and Natural Resources in Sunyani on May 8, 2024, Dr. Bawumia highlighted that the fight against illegal mining remains a pressing concern that demands the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders.
Acknowledging that no single entity or administration can single-handedly tackle the galamsey menace and achieve lasting success, Dr. Bawumia underscored the significance of a collective commitment to safeguarding Ghana’s precious resources, particularly its water bodies.
“We cannot continue to pretend the fight has been won; indeed, we have barely scratched the surface and committed to doing more to keep our other, very precious resources that spar with mining like water bodies, safe for all,” he said.
“Our solemn pledge as a government is to ensure we stay consistent with this pledge and harness existing potentials to reap the full benefits of building a very resolute small-scale mining sector that will be admired not only in the sub-region but globally,” he said
He further pledged his government’s dedication to implementing sustainable solutions that prioritize the long-term preservation of Ghana’s environment and natural resources, should he assume the presidency.
Dr. Bawumia emphasized the importance of cooperation among government agencies, mining firms, local communities, and citizens to address the complexities of illegal mining comprehensively.
The call for collective action against galamsey reflects Dr. Bawumia’s commitment to fostering a resilient small-scale mining sector that garners international acclaim while safeguarding Ghana’s environmental heritage.