By Ashiadey Dotse
Lawyer and activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor has criticized the government’s fight against illegal mining, also known as galamsey, saying it lacks a clear and coordinated strategy.
Speaking on Key Points on TV3 on Saturday, 3rd May, 2025, Barker-Vormawor said while the problem is complex, the government must offer a comprehensive plan that goes beyond press conferences and scattered statements from different ministries.
“Galamsey is a serious and complex issue, and it requires a complete and detailed strategy,” he said. “So far, the government has not released any clear policy document that tells us how they are addressing the problem.”
He pointed out that statements from the Lands Minister, Interior Minister, and Foreign Affairs Minister have been inconsistent. “We need one strategy that shows how the government plans to stop the destruction of forests, punish offenders, restore the environment, and track the flow of equipment like excavators.”
Barker-Vormawor also called for a complete ban on mining in forest reserves, saying current laws are outdated. “Our Forest Act has been around since 1927. It’s time to update it and completely ban mining in forest reserves to protect our water sources and environment.”
He noted that small-scale mining needs major reform to meet environmental standards, especially since a large portion of Ghana’s gold output comes from this sector.
He also criticized the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Minerals Commission for issuing more licenses than they can monitor. “They don’t have the capacity to make sure people follow the rules. Until that is fixed, there should be a moratorium on new licenses,” he stressed.
Barker-Vormawor urged the government to pause, regroup, and present a clear roadmap that Ghanaians can trust and measure. “We need a proper plan, not just talk,” he said.
