Govt Launches National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat to Combat Galamsey
Accra, Ghana - 29 June, 2025 - Ghana's government has taken a significant step in the fight against illegal mining, also known as galamsey, with the launch of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS).
The new body, inaugurated by Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, aims to coordinate efforts across state agencies, traditional leaders, and the military to combat the menace.
Speaking at the launch in Accra, Minister Buah highlighted the gravity of the situation, noting that 16% of Ghana's land has already been devastated by galamsey. He assured that NAIMOS would provide the strong leadership needed to tackle the issue, promising that its work would be carried out "without fear or favour."
“Sixteen percent of Ghana’s land has already been destroyed by galamsey. NAIMOS will bring the strong leadership we need to stop it,'' he said.
NAIMOS will serve as the central command center for managing and coordinating anti-galamsey operations nationwide. Its key functions will include planning and executing operations, enforcing mining and environmental laws, and collaborating with local communities to find sustainable solutions.
The secretariat will work closely with various state agencies, including the Ministries of Interior and Defence, National Security, Narcotics Control Board, and the National Investigations Bureau. It will also leverage accurate data and intelligence to guide its actions, minimizing the risk of political interference.
Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak and Deputy Defence Minister Ernest Brogya Genfi pledged their ministries' full support for NAIMOS' operations.
Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak
Genfi assured the public of military involvement in restoring damaged lands and rivers, citing President John Dramani Mahama's full backing for the initiative.
NAIMOS has already demonstrated its effectiveness in regions such as Eastern, Ashanti, Western, Central, and Western North, where operations have resulted in the seizure of over 50 excavators, bulldozers, and other equipment, as well as the arrest of several illegal miners.
Source: Lead News Online / Sadick Abdul Salam
