Illegal miners, also known as galamsey operators, have reportedly re-invaded several forest reserves in Ghana’s Ashanti Region, areas previously cleared by law enforcement agencies led by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP).
Erastus Asare Donkor highlights the resurgence in Atwima Mponua District, specifically mentioning :
– Offin Shelter Belt – Anwia Futu section: Armed illegal miners, led by Ishmael, have been operating with excavators for over two weeks.
– Offin Shelter Belt – Apemkro section: Illegal miners led by Emmanuel have taken over the Tano Offin Forest reserve’s Kyekyewere section.
– Jimira/Jimira Extension: Armed men have invaded this area, previously cleared of galamsey activities.
Context and Concerns.
No licenses are issued for small-scale mining in forest reserves, making these operations illegal.
Concerns arise about the Divisional Police Commander’s response and the state’s overall strategy to combat galamsey.
Galamsey activities severely damage ecosystems, pollute water bodies and degrade lands.
President John Mahama’s administration asserts commitment to fighting galamsey, citing measures like tracking imported excavators, prohibiting toxic chemicals and reclaiming degraded lands. Nine forest reserves have been recovered, though challenges persist .
The situation underscores need for sustained enforcement, community engagement and political will to address galamsey’s environmental and social impacts effectively .
