Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Ghana’s Minister of Defence, warned against illegal mining (galamsey), linking it to threats to forest reserves. He urged those interested in mining to obtain the necessary licenses, warning of potential government action. Galamsey remains a critical issue, prompting military intervention and calls for drastic measures from environmental groups.
Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Ghana’s Minister of Defence, has issued a firm warning to individuals involved in the illegal practice of mining, commonly known as galamsey. He urged these individuals to cease their activities, emphasizing the detrimental impact of galamsey on Ghana’s forest reserves.
In a Facebook post observed by GhanaWeb, the minister encouraged a fusion of patriotism and spirituality, stating, “In the name of God and Ghana, stop galamsey! No human being resides in the forest reserves!” He implored these individuals to refrain from entering the reserves and practicing galamsey, asserting that wise counsel should suffice.
Dated March 10, 2025, Dr. Boamah suggested that the government may take stringent measures against galamsey and urged aspiring miners to obtain proper licenses for their activities. He declared, “Stop galamsey! If you are interested in mining, seek the necessary regulatory permits. We will not talk much.”
Galamsey has been a divisive issue in Ghana for decades, leading to increased calls for government intervention. Recently, the Ministry of Defence has taken steps to combat this problem, deploying military personnel to high-risk areas to destroy mining equipment, including excavators.
At a recent press conference, AROCHA Ghana, an environmental advocacy group, echoed the need for strong action against galamsey, calling the destruction of excavators the most effective response given the current situation.
In conclusion, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah’s statements reflect a serious commitment to halting illegal mining activities in Ghana, emphasizing the significance of both patriotism and environmental protection. By advocating for regulatory compliance and hinting at possible government action, he stresses the urgency of addressing galamsey’s harmful impacts on the nation’s ecological resources. A collaborative effort among stakeholders appears crucial for resolving this ongoing crisis.
Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com
