Mahama Orders Anti-Galamsey Team to Seize Excavators Instead of Burning.
President John Dramani Mahama has directed the task force combating illegal small-scale mining (galamsey) to seize excavators and other equipment rather than destroy them.
Speaking at the Jubilee House on Friday, February 21, after a visit from the Christian Council, President Mahama emphasized the need for a balanced approachβone that enforces the law while promoting sustainable mining practices.
He acknowledged that small-scale mining remains a vital source of livelihood for approximately 1.8 million Ghanaians but stressed that it must be conducted responsibly to prevent environmental degradation. He also highlighted the alarming impact of illegal mining, revealing that 43 out of Ghanaβs 280 forest reserves have been affected.
To address this challenge, the government has initiated operations to reclaim affected reserves. A recent intervention at the Tano Nimri Forest Reserve, for instance, resulted in the removal of excavators and other equipment. Moving forward, President Mahama instructed enforcement teams to seize such machinery instead of setting them ablazeβa controversial practice that has drawn criticism in the past.
βIβve told them not to burn the excavators. They should confiscate them,β he stated.
Additionally, he announced the establishment of a mobile reinforcement team to assist forestry officials in preventing illegal miners from returning after eviction. He also expressed his commitment to engaging small-scale miners in discussions aimed at introducing more sustainable mining practices.
President Mahama reaffirmed his administrationβs dedication to balancing environmental conservation with the economic realities of those dependent on small-scale mining.
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