The Director of Intelligence Analysis at the Ministry of National Security, Dr. Victoria Sam, has affirmed that the government is advancing measures to combat the illegal mining menace, known locally as “galamsey,” in Ghana.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 4th West Africa Mining Security Conference, organized by the Australian High Commission in Ghana, Dr. Sam emphasized that galamsey presents severe economic, environmental, and security threats to the country, which the government is determined to eradicate.
“One of the nation’s most critical challenges is illegal mining, or ‘galamsey,’ which poses a severe threat to the sustainability of our natural resources and the livelihoods of countless citizens.”
Dr. Victoria Sam, Director of Intelligence Analysis at the Ministry of National Security
Dr. Sam added that the government is taking decisive steps, with an ad-hoc committee led by the Ministry of National Security, to reassess and revise strategies to address the menace.
In response to the growing galamsey threat, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has established a five-member inter-ministerial committee tasked with developing more robust and sustainable strategies to combat illegal mining.
According to Dr. Sam, this committee’s work is crucial in protecting Ghana’s water bodies and forest reserves, both of which have been severely impacted by illegal mining activities.
“The committee is diligently working to come up with effective measures that will help save the country’s natural resources,” Dr. Sam noted. She emphasized that the government’s efforts are not limited to national-level interventions but extend to engagement with local communities, industry experts, and traditional authorities.
Dr. Sam also reiterated the government’s willingness to collaborate with the diplomatic community and traditional leaders in tackling the galamsey issue. She noted that a collective approach would be more effective in curbing the menace, which has not only devastated the environment but also compromised the livelihoods of many Ghanaians.
“This signifies Ghana’s renewed commitment to confronting the menace, which has wreaked havoc on our environment,” Dr. Sam said.
“The Sahel remains at the forefront of these challenges, with insurgent groups targeting resource-rich areas. Mining assets and convoys transporting vital resources are prime targets.
“Despite the presence of security escorts, militant groups remain undeterred, posing a constant threat to mining operations.”
Dr. Victoria Sam, Director of Intelligence Analysis at the Ministry of National Security
Dr. Sam further noted that as terrorism spreads into coastal and littoral states in the region, no country is immune to the security threats posed by these groups.
Dr. Sam explained that there is evidence to suggest that terrorist groups are exploring illegal mining sectors to fund their activities, even in countries where they do not yet operate openly.
“Ghana, in particular, is on high alert and continues to implement a range of measures to fortify its security posture against potential incursions,” Dr. Sam added.
Australia’s Role in Enhancing Regional Security
Berenice Owen-Jones, the Australian High Commissioner to Ghana, also delivered remarks at the conference, emphasizing her country’s commitment to enhancing security in the West African region.
“We also appreciate that West Africa is home to some of the most challenging operating environments in the world for mining companies. Africa is now recognized as the most active theatre for violent extremism.”
Berenice Owen-Jones, the Australian High Commissioner to Ghana
Owen-Jones acknowledged the strategic importance of West Africa as a mining hub and expressed Australia’s resolve to work closely with governments in the region to address the growing threats of terrorism.
“To address the threat, the Australian Government has invested over $10 million in counter-terrorism as well as preventing and countering violent extremism programs in Africa,” the High Commissioner reiterated.
The 4th West Africa Mining Security Conference underscored the pressing need for collaborative efforts to tackle both illegal mining and the growing threat of terrorism in West Africa.
The battle against illegal mining and terrorism may be far from over, but these concerted efforts signal a strong commitment to securing a sustainable future for the region.
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