Galamsey crisis: Small-Scale Miners Association relaunches Task Force to protect environment

Accra, Ghana - September 11, 2024 - In a bid to combat the resurgence of illegal mining, also known as "galamsey," the Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners has reactivated its task force.

The move aims to address the severe environmental degradation and water pollution caused by the illicit activity.

Following a temporary halt in operations due to logistical challenges and the shooting of its commander, Major Don Chebe, the task force is set to resume its efforts.

Previously, the task force had made significant strides in combating illegal mining, resulting in the arrest of over 800 dredgers and a notable reduction in water turbidity levels.

Godwin Armah, General Secretary of the Association, emphasized the importance of collaboration with traditional leaders and local communities in the fight against illegal mining.

"We cannot do this alone," Armah stated in an interview with Channel One News.

The association per our peer review, we have what we call our task force and also the monitoring team. The task force, you remember some time ago, just early, 2023…we started from the source of the Birim and up to where it enters the Pra, we segmented it and we started operations.

“So within two weeks, we were able to get turbidity levels from 2,000 to about 50, at various pump stations from Kyebi area.”

“The Bonsu area were able to get around 100 and something from 3,000, Osino up to Anyinam, and then we went to some part of communities around Akroful area, then straight to Kade. These are the areas where we did a lot of work. And I must say that if you ask the Ghana Water Company, the regional office in Koforidua, they were pleased with the work that we did.

“But this time we are going to work closely with the paramount chiefs so that they call people under them to order. When we get to the communities, we work with them. Some of the assemblies are helping, some are not also helping. But with the support of the media, I think we can go forward.”

"We need the support of paramount chiefs, the media, and the public to make a meaningful impact." he explained.

The reactivated task force faces funding and logistical challenges, but Armah remains optimistic about its potential to protect Ghana's environment and natural resources. 

Source : Florence Kyei /Lead News Online