The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has issued a stern warning to illegal miners, and assurance to the public that the government remains committed to protecting the country’s environment.
In a clear and unequivocal terms, the Ministry’s Communications Director, Ms. Mawusi Ama Mawuenyefia in providing updates on the recent strides in the galamsey fight, made it clear that the ministry and its agencies are leaving no stone unturned in the fight against the illegal mining menace.
She also added that the government will not tolerate the numerous illegalities that have plagued the sector.
“We wish to make it clear that Government’s commitments to protect our land, government’s commitments to protect our water bodies, government’s commitments to protect the sanctity of our environment remains unwavering and devoid of political polarisation, devoid of social traditional status.”
Ms. Mawusi Ama Mawuenyefia
According to Ama Mawusi, “Mining is not illegal; mining is viable, mining is a legal activity”.
She however, clarified that that activities such as mining in water bodies, near water bodies, in forest reserves, by the roadside, without the necessary permits are considered criminal hence, will not be countenanced.
Commitment to Environmental Protection
Country’s natural resource wealth, particularly gold, have long been a source of both economic opportunity and environmental degradation.
The proliferation of illegal small-scale mining, has exacerbated the problem, leading to widespread ecosystem damage and water pollution.
In response, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has taken a proactive stance, implementing a comprehensive framework to address this pressing issue.
Among these measures include the formation of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), Blue Water Guards, etc. All these taskforces have been carrying out operations across the country aimed at bringing the galamsey menace to a thing of the past.
Pathways to Responsible Mining
The Ministry also made it clear that the government is not opposed to mining per se, but rather to the unlawful practices that threaten the country’s natural resources.
“If you want to do mining, there are legal ways to do mining. We have provided a framework. There are alternative and sustainable ways to do mining and to do it well.”
Ms. Mawusi Ama Mawuenyefia
The Ministry’s message leaves no room for ambiguity – those who choose to engage in illegal mining activities will face the full consequences of their actions.
“If you are found culpable, you will not be let go,” Mawuenyefia warned.
The government made it clear that it will not sit idly and allow the environment to be tainted in the name of mining.
Ghana’s Extractive Sector
The Ministry’s resolute stance on combating the galamsey menace underscores the government’s commitment to striking a balance between economic development and environmental protection.
By providing legal avenues for responsible mining and taking decisive action against illegal activities, the Ministry aims to unlock the full potential of Ghana’s extractive sector while safeguarding the country’s invaluable natural assets.
While the country navigates the complexities of its natural resource governance, the Ministry’s relentless position sends a clear message to all stakeholders that the government will not waver in its pursuit of sustainable and lawful mining practices.
This approach, rooted in a deep understanding of the economic and environmental realities, represents a crucial step towards securing a prosperous and environmentally-conscious future for the nation.
READ ALSO : Govt Rollout Student Loan Plus, Raises Loan by 50% and Cuts Interest Rate to 6%
