By Felix Cofie
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to fighting illegal mining, following a strategic engagement with the Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey.
The high-level meeting, held at the behest of President John Dramani Mahama, was in response to a formal petition from the Coalition demanding more robust and sustained action to tackle the illegal mining crisis across Ghana.
“We are deeply committed to protecting Ghana’s natural resources and promoting sustainable mining practices,” the Minister said, reiterating the government’s stance on preserving the environment and safeguarding future generations.Progress and New Initiatives
Hon. Buah outlined some of the government’s recent gains in the fight against galamsey, notably the recovery of eight out of nine forest reserves that were under serious threat. He also introduced key initiatives driving the current strategy, including:
• The Blue Water Guards – a specialized task force safeguarding water bodies.
• The Tree for Life Restoration Initiative – focused on land reclamation and reforestation.
• The decentralization of the mining license regime – aimed at reducing bottlenecks and increasing accountability.
Focus on NAIMOS
A major highlight of the meeting was the operational role of the newly established National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS). The Minister described it as a centralized, intelligence-led body tasked with coordinating all anti-galamsey enforcement nationwide.
“NAIMOS will greatly improve intelligence-sharing, coordination among security agencies, and field-level efficiency in dealing with illegal mining,” Hon. Buah emphasized.Coalition’s Demands and Support
The Convener of the Coalition, Dr. Ken Ashigbey, praised the Minister for his leadership and welcomed the creation of NAIMOS. He pledged the Coalition’s readiness to partner with government in the fight against illegal mining.
During the meeting, the Coalition submitted a list of demands, including:
• Revocation of Legislative Instrument (L.I. 2162), which they argue undermines anti-galamsey efforts.
• Publication of names of owners of seized excavators, to promote transparency and accountability.
• Declaration of a state of emergency in critical illegal mining hotspots.
• Swift prosecution of foreign nationals found complicit in illegal mining activities.
Minister’s Assurance
In response, Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah lauded the Coalition for its sustained advocacy and citizen-led vigilance. He assured them that their recommendations would be formally presented to President Mahama for consideration.
“Your commitment strengthens our resolve. We’ll not relent until the galamsey menace is brought under control,” the Minister concluded.The meeting marks another step in the government’s renewed push for a united front against illegal mining, bringing together state agencies, civil society, and local communities in defence of Ghana’s environment and mineral resources.
