Editor Commends Mahama, Buah for Wisely Using Seized Galamsey Equipment

 


The Managing Editor of Environmental Guide, Mr. William Sarpong Djan, has lauded President John Dramani Mahama and the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, for their innovative and pragmatic decision to repurpose equipment seized from illegal mining (galamsey) operations to support agricultural production in Ghana.

Speaking in an interview, Mr. Sarpong Djan described the initiative as a “brilliant and patriotic move” that demonstrates a strong commitment to food security, sustainability, and responsible governance. According to him, the redirection of seized water pumps and related equipment to the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) for use by farmers in the northern regions is a far better alternative to destroying the equipment, which has often been the practice in previous years.

“This initiative is one of the best moves from President Mahama and the Minister. Instead of burning these machines and allowing them to go waste, they are now being used to improve irrigation, support farmers, and boost food production across the country,” Mr. Sarpong Djan noted.

He further expressed confidence that other heavy-duty machinery seized from illegal mining sites could also be put to productive use in critical sectors such as road construction, community development, and environmental restoration projects. According to him, this approach would not only save public resources but also promote national development.

“I firmly believe that the heavy-duty machines seized from galamsey sites should be redirected for public use in building feeder roads, rehabilitating degraded lands, and supporting local assemblies. These assets, when well managed, can transform rural economies,” he added.

Mr. Sarpong Djan also called on government agencies to adopt a sustainable and humane approach to handling items confiscated through illegal means. He suggested that rather than allowing such items to perish or go to waste, they should be distributed to benefit the less privileged in society, including orphanages, correctional facilities, and schools.

“Henceforth, anything seized from illegal activity — whether food items, machinery, or goods should be used to support the poor, orphanages, schools, and even prison services. Alternatively, such items could be sold or transferred to open factories and businesses that can create jobs for the youth,” he urged.

He emphasized that this approach would ease the economic burden on the government while promoting transparency, accountability, and efficiency in state operations.

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