President of policy think tank IMANI Africa, Franklin Cudjoe, has called on John Dramani Mahama to take stronger action to tackle illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, in Ghana.
His comments follow growing concerns about the environmental damage caused by illegal mining activities across the country.
A recent report by the Forestry Commission of Ghana indicates that more than 9,000 hectares of forest have been destroyed by galamsey operations in forest reserves.
The findings have renewed calls for tougher and more coordinated measures to stop the destruction of Ghana’s natural resources.
Speaking on Channel One TV on Saturday, March 7, Mr Cudjoe acknowledged that the National Inter-Ministerial Committee on Small-Scale Mining (NAIMOS) has made some progress in addressing the problem.
However, he said lasting solutions will require authorities to target the financiers and powerful individuals believed to be behind the illegal operations.
According to him, tackling galamsey effectively will require strong political will at the highest level.
“Mr President, enough of the talk. The honeymoon is over. Get to work,” he said, urging government to take decisive steps to protect Ghana’s environment and water bodies.
