Tamale Central MP Murtala Mohammed has expressed confidence that illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, can be significantly curtailed within six months if tackled with determination and collaboration.
Speaking on Morning Starr with Lily Mohammed, the legislator emphasized that he has been engaging various stakeholders, including former ministers, agency heads, and current government officials, to develop a comprehensive approach to addressing the menace.
“I’ve had people in my department who have called in and said they are interested in contributing in any form or shape,” he said. “I have engaged the former Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, as well as Onoroko Kofu, who was the head of the EPA. Additionally, I have spoken with the current deputy minority leader, who previously served as a deputy minister at the Ministry of Environment, Science, and Technology.”
Murtala Mohammed also revealed ongoing discussions with the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, highlighting a strong commitment to finding lasting solutions.
“We are working on something to see how we can collaborate effectively to curb galamsey,” he stated. “If we approach this matter comprehensively and seriously, we should be able to see significant results within five to six months. I have no personal interest in galamsey, and I cannot be bribed. President Mahama is very serious about this issue, and I see that same seriousness in my brother, the minister for Lands and Natural Resources.”
