Barely a week after officially assuming office, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Member of Parliament and newly appointed Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, has hit the ground running with an ambitious agenda to tackle illegal mining, locally known as “galamsey.”
In a strategic move to secure local support, the Minister engaged with the Western Regional House of Chiefs during a durbar held in Sekondi-Takoradi, signaling the government’s renewed commitment to combating the environmental menace that has plagued Ghana’s natural resources.
Addressing the distinguished gathering, Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Chiefs and residents of the Western Region for their overwhelming support during the 2024 elections.
He acknowledged the critical role traditional leaders play in governance and emphasized that the government recognizes the immense expectations placed upon them, particularly concerning the fight against galamsey.
“It is not for nothing that it is said that the best comes from the West. God has been gracious to us, blessing us with an abundance of precious minerals, rich vegetation, and peace-loving people.
“The fight against galamsey must be led by our chiefs and traditional authorities in every nook and cranny of this country.”
Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
The Minister’s visit, which he described as both a mission and a plea, sought the Chiefs’ support and blessings as the government launches “Operation Heal Ghana”—a campaign aimed at curbing the destructive impact of illegal mining on the environment, particularly Ghana’s lands, forests, and water bodies.
Hon. Buah outlined key features of the government’s new anti-galamsey policy, which builds on previous efforts while introducing innovative strategies to address persistent challenges.
As part of President John Dramani Mahama’s Reset Agenda, several policy reforms have been proposed to sanitize the mining sector, with a focus on the small-scale mining sub-sector.
The Minister emphasized the need to improve the current licensing system, making it more transparent and inclusive.
Describing the current Community Mining Scheme as “highly partisan, exclusive, and defeatist of its own purpose,” the Minister announced its abolition. In its place, the government will establish Artisanal Small-Scale Mining Cooperatives (ASMCs) to promote community-based, environmentally responsible mining.
Traditional leaders will play an active role in both the pre- and post-licensing phases to ensure accountability within their jurisdictions.
The Minister underscored the pivotal role of traditional leaders in safeguarding Ghana’s natural resources. “Your unity is not just a strength but a necessity to preserve the legacy of this land for future generations,” he noted.
He urged the Chiefs to present a united front in combating illegal mining activities, which have led to the degradation of lands, pollution of water bodies, and loss of biodiversity.
“As a son of this soil, I came to seek your blessings in navigating the Ministry and to ask for your utmost support to help us reset this nation for good.”
Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
Chiefs Call for Anti-Galamsey Campaign
In response, Nana Kobina Nketsia V, Paramount Chief of the Essikado Traditional Area, commended the Minister for his proactive approach and willingness to engage with traditional authorities.
“We applaud the Minister for taking the initiative to consult with us.
“This is how we achieve meaningful progress—through dialogue and partnership.”
Nana Kobina Nketsia V, Paramount Chief of the Essikado Traditional Area
During an open forum, Chiefs raised concerns about land management issues, mining regulations, and the impact of illegal mining on their communities.
They appealed to the Minister to ensure that the newly established Operation Recover All Loot Committee also addresses land disputes and resource mismanagement in the region.
“Our lands are sacred. They are not just for us but for the generations to come.
“We stand ready to support the Minister because his success is our success.”
Nana Kobina Nketsia V, Paramount Chief of the Essikado Traditional Area
The Chiefs pledged their support, recognizing that environmental degradation threatens not just natural resources but the very fabric of Ghanaian society.
They agreed to work closely with the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, local governments, and security agencies to enforce anti-galamsey measures effectively.
Beyond the focus on illegal mining, the Minister used the occasion to advocate for peace and unity among the region’s traditional leaders.
He cautioned against chieftaincy disputes and internal conflicts that could undermine regional stability and development.
“The biggest challenges today are illegal mining, the pollution of our precious water bodies, and the degradation of forest reserves.
“But equally important is ensuring that our traditional leaders are united, as disunity can derail even the best-laid plans.”
Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah’s visit to the Western Regional House of Chiefs marks a significant step in the government’s renewed fight against galamsey.
His message was clear: the battle against illegal mining cannot be won by the government alone. It requires a united front—a collaboration between traditional leaders, local communities, policymakers, and law enforcement agencies.
As Operation Heal Ghana takes shape, the Minister’s commitment to engaging all stakeholders signals a promising start to what he hopes will be a transformative era in Ghana’s environmental and resource management landscape.
“Together, we can heal Ghana. Together, we can stop the bleeding,” the Minister concluded, leaving an indelible message of hope, resilience, and collective responsibility.
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