The fight against illegal mining (galamsey) in Ghana’s forest reserves remains a pressing issue that demands a collective approach to combat its devastating effects.
Over the years, illegal miners have continued to exploit Ghana’s forests, using mercury and other toxic chemicals that pose serious health risks to both miners and nearby communities. If left unchecked, these activities could have long-term consequences for future generations.
Residents of the Tano Anwia and Yoyo Forest areas have called on the government to provide alternative livelihoods to ensure sustainable economic opportunities for communities affected by galamsey. They believe this will encourage more people to return to farming instead of engaging in illegal mining.
In an effort to tackle the menace, residents have also urged authorities to enforce existing laws and regulations more strictly.
They emphasized that the fight against galamsey should not be left to the government alone but must involve a multi-faceted approach that includes local communities and civil society organizations.
Meanwhile, the Forestry Rapid Response Team has indicated that removing excavators from illegal mining sites is often challenging and costly.
Additionally, investigations have revealed that some illegal miners now operate late at night to avoid detection.
Residents have also appealed to former President John Dramani Mahama to ensure that members of his party do not engage in illegal mining activities.
They expressed concern that the government’s failure to implement strict measures has emboldened some National Democratic Congress (NDC) activists to enter forest reserves with impunity.
Following a joint operation by the military and forest guards, authorities impounded Eight excavators and a bulldozer from the illegal mining sites and arrested six Chinese nationals including nine indigenes from both Tano Anwia and Yoyo forest reserves.
Six Chinese nationals were also arrested, with three already remanded into police custody at the Sefwi Wyereso Police Command for further investigations.
Residents insist that urgent government intervention is needed to prevent further degradation of forest reserves and safeguard these vital ecosystems for future generations.
Forestry Commission is fighting hard but the tasked is difficult for them.
