The Government of Ghana says it has reinforced its commitment to eradicating illegal small-scale mining (galamsey) with renewed efforts.
In a press release dated October 9, 2024, the Ministry of Information announced that new operational strategies have been implemented to enhance the ongoing military-led “Operation Halt,” designed to clear river bodies of unlawful mining activities.
“Government, in its continued efforts to clamp down on the long-standing menace of illegal small-scale mining, has concluded operational measures to intensify the ongoing ‘Operation Halt’,” said Fatimatu Abubakar, the Minister of Information, in the statement.
A key element of this phase is the collaboration with the Small-Scale Miners Association of Ghana. This partnership is viewed as a pivotal move to involve stakeholders directly affected by the crackdown, aiming to create a balance between environmental conservation and the economic well-being of local miners.“The operation will be done in conjunction with the Small-Scale Miners Association of Ghana,” the release highlighted, suggesting a cooperative approach by the government.
As part of the new measures, the government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting vital natural resources by keeping river bodies and forest reserves off-limits to mining. “Government reasserts that river bodies and forest reserves remain red zones,” the statement stressed.
This intensified effort comes amid growing pressure on the government to tackle the environmental devastation caused by illegal mining, which has severely polluted water bodies and destroyed forests. The involvement of the Ghana Armed Forces underscores the serious nature of the operation.“Government reiterates its commitment to the fight against illegal small-scale mining and calls on all stakeholders to join the fight,” she concluded.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Mary Asantewaa Buabeng
