The Land and Engineering Surveyors Institution of Ghana (LESIG) has pledged its full commitment to partner with government in the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
Speaking at the official launch of LESIG in Accra, founding member and Licensed Surveyor Samuel Djaba said the institution is ready to provide technical expertise and data analysis to the Minerals Commission to help curb the destruction of water bodies and forest reserves.
According to Mr. Djaba, many people engaged in mining lack accurate knowledge of where mineral deposits are located beneath the earth. He explained that with advanced geological technology and professional surveying, identifying mineralized zones would become easier and more precise, reducing haphazard digging that destroys the environment.
“Government has not fully utilized the skills of surveyors in this country. The time is ripe for government to involve surveyors because we have the requisite tools and expertise to support the state,” he stated.
Mr. Djaba emphasized that licensed surveyors can provide critical geospatial data to monitor concessions, track illegal activities, and guide reclamation efforts. He added that LESIG is prepared to work closely with the Minerals Commission, the Lands Commission, and other stakeholders to provide accurate maps and technical reports to aid enforcement.
The newly launched Institution aims to promote professionalism among land and engineering surveyors while supporting national development and environmental protection
Deputy Director at the survey and devision at the lands commission, Eric Mensah Okantey alluded that Ghanaians must to understand the importance role surveyors play towards national.
He reiterate the need for government to involve Surveyors in its quest to put a hault to galamsey activities in some part of the country where river bodies and forest reserves are being destroyed.
Report by Bernard K Dadzie Greater Accra Region
