Illegal mining, known as galamsey, has been a persistent issue in Ghana, resulting in severe environmental damage and social unrest. Despite the government’s efforts to address this problem, galamsey continues to threaten the country’s natural resources and communities.
According to Surv. Ing. Samuel Larbi Darko, President of the Licensed Surveyors Association of Ghana (LISAG), illegal mining is one of the most pressing challenges facing Ghana. He emphasized that galamsey has had a significant impact on the environment, leading to deforestation, destruction of forests, water pollution, and soil degradation. The natural beauty of Ghana has been marred by the effects of galamsey.
Speaking at the FIG Working Week 2024 conference at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra, Surv. Ing. Samuel Larbi Darko highlighted the importance of the event in providing Ghanaian surveyors with innovative solutions to combat land degradation caused by illegal mining activities. The conference offers an opportunity for Ghanaian surveyors to learn from their global counterparts who have successfully addressed similar challenges.
He says Surveyors globally plays a major role in ensuring safer environments for it’s inhabitants, therefore it bestowed on them to make the FIG WORKING WEEK 2024 have a great impact on Ghanaians.
Dr. Diane Dumashie, the President of the International Federation of Surveyors, used the occasion to encourage surveyors to establish strong connections with governance.
She emphasized the importance of supporting conferences in Ghanaian ministries and urged participants to take advantage of the opportunity to learn about industry trends and innovations, as well as engage in discussions with various companies.
The FIG 2024 conference will feature workshops, seminars, technical tours, and paper presentations. Participants from around the world will have the chance to meet in person, form new partnerships, and engage in meaningful conversations during networking activities.
FIG Working 2024 will bring together experts from various areas of surveying, including land surveying, geospatial experts, valuers, quantity surveyors, and hydrography surveyors. This collaboration aims to enhance cooperation and understanding across different fields within the surveying industry.
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