The fight against illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, has reached a decisive moment in Ghana, with calls for stronger and more aggressive interventions echoing across the nation. At the forefront of this battle is Colonel Robert Narh, National Anti-Galamsey Army Commander and head of the Ghana Army Combat Training School, who has urged the government to authorize bolder actions to bring an end to the devastation caused by galamsey operations.
During a recent meeting with small-scale miners in the Upper Denkyira East Municipality of the Central Region, Colonel Narh spoke candidly with journalist Samuel Nana Tawiah about the escalating crisis. He emphasized the military’s readiness to take decisive action, even suggesting that a “shoot and kill” approach could be considered if illegal miners violently resist efforts to halt their operations. However, he was quick to add that such drastic measures would only proceed with explicit government approval.
“There are already task forces reclaiming destroyed lands, and soon, Ghanaians will regain their water bodies,” Colonel Narh stated. He called on citizens to support the national effort to end the destruction of Ghana’s environment, adding, “Restoring our environment is a shared responsibility, and we all have a role to play.”
Providing a regional update, the Central Regional Director of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), Mr. Kwesi Dawood, reported significant progress in the fight against illegal mining. According to Mr. Dawood, more than 1,000 acres of degraded land have been reclaimed in the Upper Denkyira East Municipality alone. These efforts, he explained, are not just about environmental restoration, but also about returning the land to productive use.
Mr. Dawood noted a marked decline in the number of people engaging in illegal mining since the reclamation initiative began. In a positive development, there have been no recent reports of water bodies being siphoned for galamsey activities—a testament to the effectiveness of current interventions. “NADMO remains committed to sustaining the momentum and eliminating the menace across the Central Region,” he assured.
The human cost of galamsey is starkly evident in the Upper Denkyira East Municipality. According to the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Mr. George Anane, over 27 residents have lost their lives after falling into abandoned mining pits left behind by illegal miners. These tragic incidents highlight the urgent need for comprehensive land reclamation and stronger regulatory enforcement.
Mr. Anane pledged to intensify the campaign against illegal mining, emphasizing that the ongoing reclamation exercise will help prevent further tragedies while restoring the land for agriculture, housing, and other beneficial purposes. He warned that anyone found mining in protected areas—including forests and water bodies, would face arrest and prosecution. “We are committed to achieving zero galamsey in this municipality by the end of the year,” he declared, signaling a new era of accountability.
Colonel Narh’s call for tougher measures has resonated with many in government and civil society, reflecting a growing consensus that bold action is necessary to end illegal mining for good. The current campaign brings together the military, NADMO, local government authorities, and community members in a coordinated effort that combines enforcement, land reclamation, and public engagement.
The results are already visible in cleaner water bodies, reclaimed lands, and safer communities. Yet, officials caution that the fight is far from over. Sustained vigilance, public support, and the political will to empower security agencies with the necessary legal backing are all seen as critical to ensuring long-term success.
As Ghana presses forward in the battle against galamsey, the stakes could not be higher. Illegal mining has not only devastated the natural environment but also claimed lives and threatened the country’s future prosperity. The government now faces mounting pressure to take decisive action, balancing the need for security with respect for human rights and the rule of law.
With continued commitment and collaboration, the vision of a Ghana free from galamsey is within reach. For the communities of Upper Denkyira East and beyond, the promise of restored lands, clean water, and renewed hope offers a powerful incentive to persevere through to the end.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
