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Ghana Cracks Down on Illegal River Mining, Burns Equipment

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The Amansie South District Small-Scale Mining Task Force has taken decisive action against illegal mining activities on local rivers. A joint task force comprising the Amansie South District Assembly, National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), Ghana Police Service, Immigration, National Investigation Bureau (NIB) and media outlets conducted the operation.

Targeting illegal mining sites along district rivers, the task force destroyed chanfang dredging machines and water-pumping equipment used by illegal miners. This move supports the government’s renewed commitment to protect water bodies from destructive illegal mining, which has severely polluted regional water sources.

Kwaku Abonee, Chairman of the Amansie South District branch of the Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners (GNASSM), praised the initiative. However, he emphasized empowering licensed small-scale miners to combat illegal mining, known locally as “galamsey,” particularly on river bodies. Abonee argued licensed miners possess vital local knowledge to effectively counter illegal activities.

“Instead of deploying soldiers, the government should mandate licensed miners to combat illegal operators,” Abonee stated. He stressed licensed miners’ vested interest in environmental protection, as illegal activities harm their livelihoods by degrading land and water.

Abonee urged district traditional authorities to prevent foreign nationals’ involvement in illegal mining. “Chiefs must prevent foreigners from operating illegally on our rivers,” he emphasized.

The Amansie South District’s efforts underscore growing concerns over environmental degradation from illegal mining. Authorities and local communities seek stronger collaboration between government, local authorities and licensed miners for lasting solutions.

Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO

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