During a key stop in the Volta Region as part of the Movement for Change Caravan Tour, Hopeson Adorye, a central figure in Alan Kyerematen’s campaign, delivered a compelling address on one of Ghana’s most pressing issues—illegal mining, commonly known as “galamsey.” Adorye pointed to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government’s failure to curb the destructive practice and presented Kyerematen’s robust 10-point strategy to eradicate galamsey if elected.
A Non-Negotiable Ban on All Small-Scale Mining
Central to Kyerematen’s plan is a sweeping one-year ban on all forms of small-scale mining, legal or illegal. Adorye stated this moratorium is essential for protecting Ghana’s natural resources, particularly its rivers, forests, and lands, which have suffered severe damage under the current administration.
“The devastation galamsey has caused must be stopped immediately,” Adorye declared. “Under Kyerematen’s leadership, the government will impose a non-negotiable one-year ban, regardless of any licenses held.”
Reclaiming Machinery and Rehabilitating the Environment
During the one-year pause, the Kyerematen administration plans to conduct a massive operation to retrieve and store all machinery used in mining. Adorye announced that the 48 Engineers Regiment of the Ghana Armed Forces would oversee this operation, ensuring accountability for every piece of equipment.
Simultaneously, an environmental restoration initiative would be launched, focusing on restoring rivers and reclaiming lands devastated by mining. The government intends to employ the youth who were involved in illegal mining, paying them to regenerate the land by planting essential crops like cocoa and palm trees.
Regulated Small-Scale Mining After the Ban
Following the ban, Kyerematen’s plan would organize former small-scale miners into legally regulated companies. These companies would undergo training, receive proper equipment, and operate under stricter licensing regulations. A thorough audit of licenses issued over the past 15 years is a key feature of the plan, aimed at uncovering any irregularities under the current government.
“The NPP administration issued licenses recklessly, even in sensitive areas like forest reserves,” Adorye criticized, underscoring the need for more responsible practices moving forward.
Protecting Forests and Water Bodies with Life Sentences
The plan also emphasizes safeguarding Ghana’s forests and water bodies, with licenses for mining in forest reserves set to be revoked. A “citizen mining protection rights group” will be established to monitor mining activities, giving local communities the power to arrest illegal miners.
Adorye issued a stark warning: life imprisonment will be enforced for those found guilty of illegal mining in protected areas. “This is the only way we can truly protect our environment,” he said.
A Call for Collective Action
Ending his speech, Adorye called on Ghanaians to rally behind Kyerematen’s vision, stressing the harmful impact of illegal mining on the country’s food supply and public health.
“Galamsey is not just an environmental issue—it’s poisoning our food, our water, and ultimately, our people,” Adorye warned. “Alan Kyerematen has the leadership to end this once and for all.”
Adorye’s message resonated strongly with the crowd, offering hope to those concerned about the growing galamsey crisis. Kyerematen’s 10-point plan is seen by his supporters as the decisive action needed to protect Ghana’s future from the ravages of illegal mining.
