Akufo-Addo sets up committee to address galamsey

An ad hoc ministerial committee has been established by President Nana Akufo-Addo to engage stakeholders and assess the government’s ongoing efforts in combating illegal mining.

The committee, comprising five members, is chaired by National Security Minister Albert Kan-Dapaah. Other members include the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor; the Minister of Defence, Dominic Nitiwul; the Minister of Employment, Labour Relations, and Pensions, Ignatius Baffour Awuah; and the Minister of Information, Fatimatu Abubakar.

This move comes in response to growing calls from various stakeholders urging the President to take decisive action against the illegal mining menace.

In a statement dated September 13, 2024, and signed by the Minister of Information, Fatimatu Abubakar, it was outlined that the committee’s primary responsibility is to engage with key stakeholders, including local communities, traditional leaders, and industry experts, to evaluate the effectiveness of current government interventions aimed at curbing illegal mining.

The establishment of the committee demonstrates the government’s renewed commitment to finding a more comprehensive solution to the galamsey problem, which continues to wreak havoc on Ghana’s environment and natural resources.

“The creation of this ministerial committee is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to tackle the galamsey issue head-on, ensuring that sustainable and effective measures are in place,” the statement emphasised.

Earlier this week, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources also released a press statement indicating that it is reviewing existing measures to combat illegal mining. However, the Ministry dismissed calls for a declaration of a State of Emergency.