The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, says multiple factors are fueling the persistence of illegal mining in Ghana and must be addressed to end the menace.
Speaking at a stakeholder engagement on Friday, October 3, the minister cited limited public awareness of the environmental and health risks of galamsey as one of the major drivers.
He also pointed to weak enforcement of mining regulations, which has allowed illegal operators to thrive.
According to him, widespread unemployment, poverty, and lack of opportunities continue to push many people into illegal mining as a source of livelihood.
Mr. Buah further noted that corruption among politicians and law enforcement agencies undermines the fight against galamsey.
“Law enforcement agencies and politicians who were supposed to lead the effort were all complicit,” he said.
He also linked the problem to international demand, explaining that high global gold prices provide strong incentives for illegal mining activities.
The Minister stressed that addressing galamsey requires a holistic strategy that tackles domestic challenges while also considering external market pressures.
Source: AdomOnline
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