The National Concerned Small Scale Miners Association of Ghana has demanded that the government honor its pledge to introduce technological reforms and capacity-building initiatives to curb illegal mining, known as “galamsey.” At a press conference in Kumasi, the Association expressed deep concern over the alleged targeted harassment of licensed miners by state security operatives since the National Democratic Congress (NDC) took office.
According to the Association, instead of focusing on sustainable strategies to combat illegal mining, the government has unleashed its anti-galamsey task force on legitimate small-scale operators. The group accused the task force of engaging in lawless behavior, including the arbitrary confiscation and destruction of excavators belonging to members who are legally registered.
“We are not against the fight against galamsey, but we cannot support an approach that targets licensed miners while ignoring the real culprits,” said Michael Kwadwo Peprah, President of the Association. “The arbitrary seizure and destruction of our equipment, even those not in operation, is unacceptable. We urge the government to shift its focus from punitive measures to implementing promised reforms that would support and modernize the small-scale mining sector.”
Peprah emphasized that addressing the galamsey menace requires a constructive and collaborative approach, stressing the need for fairness, consistency, and genuine support for legal miners. “We need a government that works with us, not against us. Let’s work together to find sustainable solutions to the galamsey problem, rather than resorting to intimidation and destruction.”
