By: Harry Graphic
The Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency Women Organizer and member of the NDC Communications Team,Victoria Naima Abdulai has stated that it is misleading to attribute the menace of galamsey (illegal mining) solely to unemployment.
According to her on GTV Breakfast Show on Friday 7th November 2025, before the rise of galamsey activities, there were legitimate sources of employment in many mining communities, including agriculture, small-scale trading, and other local enterprises that sustained livelihoods. She noted that the growing attraction to galamsey has more to do with greed and the lure of quick money than a genuine lack of job opportunities.
Speaking on the show, Madam Naima emphasized that while unemployment remains a challenge, it should not be used to justify acts that destroy Ghana’s environment and water bodies. She stressed that communities must take responsibility for protecting their lands instead of enabling or shielding illegal miners. “We must be honest with ourselves our lands, rivers, and forests are being destroyed not because people are hungry, but because some people have chosen the easy way out,” she said, urging traditional leaders and youth groups to be part of the solution.
She further called on government to intensify education on the long-term economic and health consequences of galamsey.
Madam Naima concluded by applauding the President and his cabinet for its efforts to stop the menace just after 11 months in office.
