The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources (MLNR), as part of efforts to combat Ghana’s current national environmental threat, illegal mining popularly known as galamsey, in collaboration with the security agencies, is training more personnel to be combat-ready for the anti-illegal mining fight.
Galamsey, which has become a major cause of concern in Ghana due to the devastation of forests, water bodies, and the contamination of both water and soil, thereby affecting crop yields, has become a topical issue in Ghana.
President Mahama, upon assumption of office, gave a directive to the sector Minister, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, not to issue any new mining licenses to allow for a proper and cursory assessment of the situation.
Further, the sector Minister has also written to the Attorney General for consideration of a repeal of the infamous LI 2462, which has been a major concern for many Ghanaians, particularly CSOs.
The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations (NAIMOS) was launched by the Minister to deepen efforts at coordinating activities of the Galamsey fight. This has yielded very positive results, and the aim this time round is to ensure the challenge is dealt with once and for all
It is in this light that the NAIMOS Coordinator, Col. Buah, has instituted a special training for all personnel called on to serve in this fight.
The aim is to equip them with the relevant Forest laws, land issues and other basic guidelines in the discharge of their duties.
The programme also seeks to ensure that over thousands of security personnel that will be deployed to the over 44 major flashpoints are equipped and able to DETER, HALT, DISCOURAGE and ARREST.
They will also be expected to COLLABORATE with the traditional authorities, but not allow themselves to be compromised.
The task force is an addition to numerous efforts (rCOMSDEP, Blue Water Guards, etc.) by the Ministry to combat Galamsey.
Minister, reiterated President Mahama and the NDC-led government is NOT opposed to mining but strongly frowns on irresponsible mining, particularly mining in;
- Forest reserves
- Water bodies
These men, who are undergoing training unlike in the past, will be stationed permanently at the various flashpoints and will constantly be on rotation.
Credit: Mynewsgh.com
