Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Ghana’s Defence Minister, has warned against illegal mining, urging citizens to cease such activities in order to protect the nation’s forest reserves. He emphasized the need for individuals to obtain necessary mining licenses and hinted at potential government action. Environmental activists have also called for decisive measures to combat galamsey, including the destruction of mining equipment.
Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, the Minister of Defence, has issued a serious admonition to those involved in illegal mining practices—referred to as “galamsey”—urging them to halt their activities. In a recent Facebook post, he called on individuals to merge their sense of patriotism with spiritual responsibilities to protect Ghana’s forest reserves from degradation.
In his post dated March 10, 2025, Dr. Boamah stated, “In the name of God and Ghana, stop galamsey! No human being resides in the forest reserves! In the name of God and Ghana, stay away from the forest reserves and galamsey. A word to the wise is enough!” He warned potential miners to regularize their operations by obtaining the appropriate licenses.
The issue of “galamsey” has been a topic of significant concern in Ghana for several years, leading to escalating calls for governmental action. The government has responded by implementing measures through the Ministry of Defence, which has involved deploying military forces to high-risk mining areas, leading to the destruction of illegal mining equipment, including excavators.
AROCHA Ghana, an environmental activist group, recently demanded significant actions to combat galamsey, stating that the destruction of excavators is the most effective solution available. Their call underscores the growing necessity for coordinated responses to this contentious issue that threatens the ecological integrity of Ghana.
The Defence Minister’s firm stance against illegal mining underscores the critical need for adherence to environmental laws in Ghana. His appeal combines a call for patriotism and responsibility towards preserving forest reserves. As the government contemplates further action against illegal mining, the support of civil and environmental advocacy groups is paramount in combating this ongoing challenge.
Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com
