Galamsey can end if we empower chiefs, traditional leaders - Ahmed Ibrahim - Channel1 News

The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, wants more power for traditional leaders. He believes this could reduce illegal mining (galamsey) and promote local development.

In an interview on GhOne TV, the minister highlighted that chiefs lack authority against illegal miners. Many miners bypass traditional leaders by getting permits from government agencies. This leaves chiefs unable to act when mining threatens their communities.

“Can you imagine if chiefs could summon illegal miners in their areas?” he asked. “Right now, a miner gets a letter from the Minister of Lands. They enter the chief’s area and start digging. If the chief calls them, they refuse to come. What can the chief do?”

The minister proposed restoring power to chiefs so they can engage in governance and development actively. He stated that traditional leaders are custodians of the land. They have a vested interest in protecting natural resources and should hold illegal miners accountable legally.