Governance advocate Rev. Charles Owusu has called for a complete ban on illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, describing it as a serious threat to Ghana’s future.
Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show, Dwaso Nsem, Rev. Owusu urged the government to declare galamsey areas as military zones and deploy soldiers to protect the environment.
“There should be a total ban on galamsey. While the soldiers are working, efforts should be made to clear our seas, rivers, and forests. If we don’t solve galamsey, it will affect us all,” he cautioned.
He also proposed involving the Forestry Commission in a reforestation program that would allocate a percentage of benefits to individuals and groups invested in tree planting.
Rev. Owusu emphasized the need for a dedicated environmental protection unit to sustain the fight against illegal mining. He stressed that only regulated and lawful mining should be permitted, urging former President John Mahama to ensure that Ghana’s laws are enforced if he returns to power.
“There should be a total ban on galamsey activities, and these areas should be declared military zones. While soldiers operate in these regions, efforts must also focus on restoring our seas, rivers, and forests. People can be incentivized to participate in tree planting initiatives, with a share of proceeds going to participants,” he said.
He added, “An environmental protection unit should be set up specifically for these galamsey zones. With genuine and committed action, the fight against galamsey can be effective. Our laws must be enforced to allow only proper mining practices.”
Source: Farida Seidu | Adomonline
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