Defence Minister, Dr. Omane Boamah, says government has reformed the fight against illegal mining with the establishment of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NIMOS).
Speaking at the Jubilee House on Monday, July 21, as part of the Government Accountability Series, Dr. Boamah said the Ghana Armed Forces continue to play crucial roles in combating illegal mining, known locally as ‘galamsey’.
“We are not out of the woods yet as a nation, but there is hope because there is political will at the very top. We have reviewed the fight against illegal mining and worked with stakeholders to reform it. The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat, NIMOS, is a product of that review exercise,” he stated.
He added that several forest reserves recovered earlier this year, which forest guards could not previously access, were reclaimed through operations led by the Ghana Armed Forces.
Dr. Boamah also highlighted interventions such as Operation Hall 2, where the Navy supported land forces to combat illegal mining along River Ankobra in the Western and Western North regions. Additionally, riverine operations along the Volta River, such as Operation Oasis in Bui, have helped reduce the effects of illegal mining on the Black Volta.
He revealed that to further sustain gains in the anti-galamsey fight, the government is investing in training and logistics for military personnel. According to him, the first batch of 453 personnel under the Blue Water Guard initiative have already been trained by the Ghana Navy, while a second batch of 532 personnel commenced training last month and are expected to graduate this week.
The Defence Minister emphasised that protecting the environment and Ghana’s natural resources is a shared responsibility, calling on all citizens to support the government’s efforts to end illegal mining and ensure mining activities leave a positive green footprint without polluting vital water bodies.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
