We have needed political will to fight galamsey - Defence Minister

The Minister for Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, has spoken out against illegal mining, known as galamsey. He stated that the government is ready to confront and defeat this issue.

His comments came after a major military operation in the Western Region. The Ghana Armed Forces found and dismantled a hidden galamsey settlement with over 10,000 people.

In a Facebook post on April 16, Dr. Boamah emphasized action over words. He said the fight against illegal mining will focus on results.

“We’ll talk less and let action guide us,” he wrote. This marks a shift towards addressing the environmental crisis caused by galamsey activities.

Dr. Boamah urged illegal miners to leave Ghana’s forest reserves and water bodies. He stressed that this is important for their safety and the environment.

“Leave the forest reserves and water bodies,” he pleaded. “Save your lives. Save the environment.” His message highlighted the severe impact of illegal mining on natural resources.

He assured the public that the Ghana Armed Forces are prepared to handle this situation. “The Ghana Armed Forces have been empowered,” he affirmed.

He added that they would continue to support national efforts to protect the environment decisively.