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The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah‑Kofi Buah, has emphasized that Ghana’s battle against illegal gold mining—locally known as galamsey—is a long-term “marathon,” not a sprint. He stressed that decisive, sustained efforts are required to protect the environment, water bodies, and future generations.
Why This Matters
- Systemic governance challenge: Less than 40 of over 800 mining‑related cases have been prosecuted successfully in courts, highlighting the need for legal reform and faster adjudication.
- Large-scale environmental destruction: Around 16% of Ghana’s land reserves have been degraded due to galamsey, affecting river lives, forests, and biodiversity.
Strategy & Reforms
1. Fast‑Track Court for Miners
Buah is advocating for a special court to expedite trials against illegal miners, arguing traditional courts are too slow to deter offenders. He has raised the idea with senior officials including the Attorney General and Chief Justice.
2. Centralized Command via NAIMOS
The government has inaugurated the National Anti‑Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) as the central agency to plan, coordinate and lead all anti-galamsey raids across Ghana’s 16 regions.
3. Sustained Enforcement & Seizures
Operations have reclaimed 7 of 9 forest reserves overrun by miners, confiscating at least 100 excavators, 3 bulldozers, and other equipment. Confiscated machinery is being repurposed for public projects.
4. Five-Pillar National Strategy
Buah outlined a holistic plan:
- Reform licensing
- Strengthen law enforcement
- Engage community stakeholders
- Reclaim degraded lands
- Provide alternative livelihoods for affected communities
Minister’s Key Message
“The fight against galamsey is a priority of this government, and we will be relentless… We will deal with everyone involved, including persons with political affiliation,” he warned.
He cautioned the public that while arrests and operations are essential, the roots of the problem demand policy, enforcement, and community mobilization.
The Lands Minister frames the anti‑galamsey campaign as a multiyear mission grounded in structure—not sporadic action. From fast-track courts and centralized authority to machinery tracking and licensing reforms, the government is laying the groundwork for sustainable enforcement. As Buah insists, this is a marathon that cannot be abandoned midway.
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