Illegal small-scale mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, is endangering the integrity of the Bui Dam, warns Godwin Edudzi Tameklo, CEO of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA). During an appearance on TV3’s Key Points, Tameklo highlighted the significant investment of $600 million in the dam’s construction and stressed the urgency of addressing this issue.
Tameklo expressed confidence in President John Dramani Mahama and the security forces’ commitment to combating illegal mining activities. “The Bui Dam is getting compromised… Ghanaians expect more action, and I assure you that efforts are underway,” he stated.
Concerns have been raised regarding the presence of foreign nationals involved in galamsey operations. Tameklo noted, “The Forestry Commission has been aware of these settlements for some time,” and reiterated Mahama’s determination to tackle this longstanding legacy issue.
Senyo Hosi, Convener of the One Ghana Movement, emphasized the severity of the situation, calling Ghana a “failing state” due to the rise of illegal mining. He described the armed miners as a national security threat, urging for a thorough investigation into the establishment of foreign communities engaged in illegal mining.
In a recent operation, a joint task force from the Forestry Commission and the Armed Forces raided the notorious galamsey enclave of Abrewa Ninkrane, resulting in the destruction of makeshift camps used by illegal miners, many of whom are believed to be from Nigeria, Guinea, Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
Nana Kwabena Bosompim, Western Regional Forestry Manager, reported that illegal miners had created fully functional hubs, including shelters and brothels. He warned that the task force would remain in the area for the next two weeks to ensure that illegal miners do not return.
“We encountered over 10,000 miners during the raid, far exceeding our estimates. We had to take decisive action to dismantle their operations,” he explained.
Bosompim urged illegal miners to cease activities in protected areas, stating, “If you want to mine, do so legally, and we will have no issues.”
As the government mobilizes resources to combat the “galamsey” menace, public concern grows over the implications of illegal mining on national security and environmental integrity. The situation remains critical, demanding immediate and effective intervention.
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