Ghana in Crisis Over Illegal Small-Scale Mining – Minister



The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has called for a united front in tackling illegal small-scale mining (galamsey), warning that Ghana is facing an environmental crisis due to the destruction of forests, lands, and water bodies.


Speaking at the Parliamentarians' Conference on Restoring a Culture of Proper Small-Scale Mining in Ghana, Hon. Buah emphasized that the country’s water resources are at risk, with contamination levels far exceeding safe thresholds. "If we don’t act now, we are drinking poison," he warned.


He noted that while legal small-scale mining plays a vital role in Ghana’s economy, illegal activities, often driven by powerful financiers, pose a serious threat. He stressed the need to hold these “big players” accountable rather than only targeting small-scale operators.


The Minister highlighted key government initiatives, including enhanced law enforcement, collaboration with security agencies, and a proposal to decentralize the licensing and policing of mining operations to the district level. "We must empower local authorities to regulate and enforce mining laws effectively," he stated.


On tackling the role of foreign nationals in illegal mining, Hon. Buah supported stricter deportation measures, arguing that those engaging in destructive mining practices should not be granted bail.


He assured Ghanaians that the government is committed to fighting galamsey without political interference. "No one—whether appointed by the President or Vice President—will have the power to interfere in this fight," he declared.


The conference, attended by Members of Parliament and stakeholders, focused on developing a strategic roadmap to promote responsible mining practices and protect Ghana’s natural resources for future generations.






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