Lands Minister seeks media support in fight against galamsey

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, MP, highlighted the media's vital role in fighting illegal mining (galamsey). He met with representatives from major media houses to discuss this issue. The meeting aimed to clarify illegal mining's complexities and seek media support. This is especially important around water bodies and forest reserves.

The meeting took place on March 24, 2025. It coincided with reports of an attack on Forestry Commission officers. Armah-Kofi Buah noted that this incident shows the seriousness of the problem. He stressed the need for decisive and inclusive solutions.

During the meeting, he provided details about galamsey under the Mahama administration. He revealed that nine forest reserves were already controlled by illegal miners when he took office. He also shared alarming statistics about water pollution. Turbidity levels in treated water ranged from 5,000 to 12,000 NTU—over ten times the safe limit of 500 NTU.

Illegal mining has caused significant land degradation as well. It has affected an area equivalent to 7,500 football fields.

After his briefing, Armah-Kofi Buah outlined government measures to combat illegal mining. The strategy focuses on five key pillars:

1. **Enforcement of Existing Laws**: Strengthening collaboration with law enforcement for crackdowns.

2. **Structural Overhaul**: Reshuffling teams at sites and forest areas to prevent complacency.

3. **Stakeholder Engagement**: Involving traditional leaders and local authorities in licensing processes.

4. **Technology Deployment**: Establishing a monitoring system for real-time tracking of mining activities.

5. **Public Sensitization**: Raising awareness to encourage collective responsibility against galamsey.

The Minister pointed out flaws in the current licensing system that enable illegal mining. The centralized process excludes traditional rulers and local officials, weakening oversight. To fix this, the government will decentralize licensing so traditional authorities can approve permits first.

Armah-Kofi Buah urged the media to stay vocal and objective against galamsey issues without politicizing them. He emphasized their role as a crucial part of society and called for their support in amplifying government efforts.

Media practitioners praised the Minister for his engagement and promised to use their platforms against illegal mining effectively.