The task force fighting unlawful small-scale mining, or galamsey, has been instructed by President John Dramani Mahama to confiscate excavators instead of destroying them.
Compared to the previous administration’s strategy, which was criticized for burning excavators used in illicit mining operations, the directive represents a change.
Following a meeting with Christian Council members at the Jubilee House on Friday, February 21, President Mahama emphasized the need for a more organized and long-term strategy to combat illicit mining.
He also emphasized how galamsey has a major effect on livelihoods, pointing out that some 1.8 million Ghanaians work as small-scale miners.
He acknowledged its economic significance but underlined the necessity of ethical mining methods to avoid environmental damage.
The President also revealed that illicit mining has caused the degradation of 43 of Ghana’s 280 forest reserves.
Excavators and other mining equipment have been seized during recent operations in the Tano Nimri Forest Reserve as part of the government’s increased attempts to restore impacted areas.
