Akufo-Addo outlines enhanced measures to deal with galamsey

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has responded to Organised Labour’s October 7 press release, which demanded an immediate halt to illegal mining in and around water bodies and forest reserves. In light of their concerns, the President outlined new measures aimed at intensifying the government’s fight against illegal mining.

In a press release dated October 9, 2024, and signed by the Director of Communications at the Presidency, Eugene Arhin, the President outlined the following actions:

1. Deployment of Additional Military Personnel
   “The President has directed the Minister for Defence to deploy additional military forces to intensify the ongoing ‘Operation Halt,’ which aims to curb illegal mining activities.”

2. Suspension of Mining in Forest Reserves
   The President has instructed the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, along with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to suspend the enforcement of the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulations, 2023 (L.I. 2462), with immediate effect.

3. Strengthened Prosecution of Illegal Mining Cases
   “In a bid to enhance legal action against illegal mining activities, four dedicated courts have already been established. The President has further directed the Attorney General to work with the Chief Justice to increase the number of courts handling cases related to illegal mining.”

4. Call for a National Pact on Illegal Mining
   The President called on Organised Labour to encourage all presidential candidates and political parties to sign a pact, committing to the fight against illegal mining as part of their election pledges.

In conclusion, President Akufo-Addo urged Organised Labour to suspend its planned strike, scheduled for October 10, 2024, and to collaborate with the government and other stakeholders in addressing the galamsey menace.