Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, the Minister-designate for the Ministry of Defence, has called for a comprehensive strategy to tackle the menace of illegal mining, also known as galamsey, in Ghana. Speaking during his vetting by the Appointments Committee on January 28, 2025, Dr. Boamah emphasized that military efforts alone cannot provide a permanent solution to the problem.
Galamsey has had devastating environmental consequences, including polluted rivers and damaged lands. To address this, Dr. Boamah proposed a multi-faceted approach that involves community engagement, alternative livelihoods, and modern technology. He believes that providing better job opportunities will reduce the number of people involved in galamsey, making it easier for law enforcement to manage the issue.
Dr. Boamah’s approach marks a significant shift away from relying solely on military operations to combat galamsey. Instead, he advocates for collaboration with various stakeholders, including local communities, to find a long-term solution to the problem. As he aptly put it, “The fight against galamsey should not focus only on soldiers. We need to engage the people, educate them on other livelihood programs, and use technology alongside the military.”
Source: Ruth ADJORLOLO
