Former Deputy Defense Minister and former Nkoranza North MP, Hon. Major(Rtd) Derek Oduro, has said the fight against illegal mining(galamsey) requires commitment from both government, chiefs and the entire public.
He observed that activities of illegal miners have destroyed many water bodies and farmlands in the country which will in the future affect all citizens.
Former President Akufo-Addo in 2017 after assumption of office declared that he was prepared to put his presidency on the line in the fight against galamsey.
His declaration was amidst new measures such as the deployment of police and military personnel to arrest illegal miners across the country and the introduction of a community mining programme aimed at regulating small-scale mining in communities in an environmentally sustainable manner.
Speaking during a discussion segment on Atinka AM Drive Wednesday 5,February,2025 with host Ekow Budu Sam, Mr. Oduro charged chiefs and opinion leaders to step up their efforts in the fight against illegal mining, also known as galamsey.
He said, without the support of these key stakeholders, the fight will not be won and the country will continue to suffer.
“These activities expose the rivers to all forms of pollution. To overcome this canker requires the commitment of everyone, including the government and the chiefs. When our chiefs and individuals put a stop to Leasing lands to these illegal miners, the issue of galamsey will come to an end,”he added.
However, a National Communications Team Member of the NDC, Bright Nana Apraku Esq. also shared his views on the issue saying if we really want to fight the galamsey menace, government needs to enforce the laws when it comes to punishing these galamseyers.
He added that, the lack of political will also constitute a threat in this fight.
Ghana I Atinkaonline.com