Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, has bemoaned the role of some locals in protecting illegal miners, but insists the government remains resolute in its fight against galamsey, with special focus now on safeguarding vital water bodies.
Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, the Minister said galamsey activities have now taken a toll on water sources in the region, worsening the water crisis in some communities.
“Galamsey is everywhere, and that is what makes the fight difficult. But we cannot also relent and say we won’t do anything about it. We are fighting with the strength and energy we have to ensure that the situation is brought under control,” he said.
Mr. Nelson explained that his outfit is now placing special attention on protecting water sources after reports of illegal diversions at the Bonsar Water Treatment Plant, which serves Tarkwa and its environs.
“When we visited the Bonsar Water Plant, we heard that some people had diverted water for other uses, including illegal mining. We had to clear the place because, as it stands, the Ghana Water Company is unable to refine the water for residents,” he revealed.
The Minister noted that while efforts in the past focused on clearing illegal miners from forest reserves, the current priority is water protection.
“For now, the forest reserves have been cleared, but the focus is on the water. Protecting our river bodies is paramount because without them, we cannot provide safe and clean water for our people,” he emphasized.
He also expressed frustration about the role some local residents play in undermining the fight against galamsey.
“The challenge is that people living around these communities don’t help. Instead, they tip off the illegal miners whenever security forces are on their way. In some cases, the residents even protect the miners. This does not help at all,” he lamented.
Mr. Nelson called on assemblies and communities to support the government’s efforts, adding that in the long term, consistent protection of river bodies will be key to resolving the crisis.
He further disclosed that the menace is not only perpetrated by Ghanaians but also by foreigners.
“Galamsey is not just Ghanaians. We have West African brothers and sisters also involved. Earlier this year, during an operation in a forest reserve, we found people of different nationalities mining illegally,” he said.
The Minister assured residents that the fight against illegal activities on waterways will continue, with the aim of ensuring that critical water installations remain safe and that households have access to wholesome water.
Source: Dorcas Abedu-Kennedy
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