A Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, George Mireku Duker, has stated that military intervention alone cannot end the galamsey menace in Ghana.
Speaking at a recent event, Mr. Duker emphasized that while the military can aid in enforcing laws, a more comprehensive approach is needed to address the root causes of illegal mining.
He explained that simply increasing military presence in mining areas does not tackle the underlying factors that drive individuals to engage in galamsey. Instead, he stressed the need to provide alternative livelihoods and promote sustainable mining practices to prevent illegal activities.
“A focus on education and community engagement is crucial in shifting perceptions about legal mining practices,” the Deputy Minister noted. He also highlighted the importance of collaboration among local communities, the government, and the private sector in creating an environment where legal mining can thrive, thereby reducing the appeal of illegal operations.
Mr. Duker advocated for a balanced strategy that prioritizes both law enforcement and community development. “Let’s do everything possible to sack all illegal miners from our water bodies. Over the years, successive governments have tried to use the military to fight galamsey, but none of them succeeded. This shows that militarisation of the galamsey fight won’t provide a long-term solution.”
He continued, “The solution to the menace is not the deployment of the military. The solution lies in all of us showing commitment and willingness to protect our rivers and water bodies. It has been done in other countries, so we are the ones who can solve it. We can form community watchdogs to protect our water bodies.”
Meanwhile, President Akufo-Addo has directed the Minister of Defence to send additional military forces to support “Operation Halt,” the government’s initiative aimed at combating illegal mining. The operation will focus on areas near water bodies and forest reserves that have been heavily impacted by galamsey.