PR UPDATES – MLNR
Senyo Hosi and Ing. Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, representatives of the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining, have brought up important issues with the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources concerning the battle against illicit mining.
Among other things, they want to address security risks caused by galamsey operations, declare a state of emergency for nine forest reserves affected by illegal mining, look into how illegal miners obtain firearms, and investigate politically connected mining enterprises.
Ing. Ashigbey stressed that prominent politicians’ involvement has weakened the fight against illegal mining, also known as Galamsey.
He maintained that in order for the government to effectively fight illicit mining, these people must be held responsible.
“Unless these influential figures are brought to justice, the fight against galamsey will remain an uphill battle,” he stated.
In order to address the underlying causes, debate potential remedies, and involve the public, Ing. Ashigbey also suggested holding an urgent roundtable discussion on galamsey.
In order to properly address the situation, he emphasized the necessity of a cooperative strategy that involves all relevant parties.
Senyo Hosi reiterated the concerns and encouraged the Minister to take immediate action while encouraging public participation.
“We need active participation, starting with monitoring the turbidity levels of our water bodies. Honest reviews of the situation and transparent communication are crucial to keeping the public informed and involved,” he added.
Reaffirming the Coalition’s commitment, he said, “Our support is impartial, we stand for Ghana, not for any political party. We are fully committed to assisting the President in the fight against galamsey.”
He did point out, though, that in order to successfully support the administration and assist the Ministry in informing the public about progress, the Coalition needs additional details on ongoing initiatives.
Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, MP, Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, responded by welcoming the Coalition and applauding their commitment to the cause.
He described the government’s efforts to stop illicit mining, which include continuing talks with important parties, equipment seizures, certain detentions, and the reclaiming of certain forest areas, among other things.
Hon. Buah also announced future initiatives, like the Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative, which aims to restore areas severely damaged by illegal mining, and the Blue Water Initiative, which recruits and trains River Guards, among others.
“To ensure a unified approach, the government plans to decentralize the fight against galamsey by engaging Regional Security agency heads, District Chief Executives (DCEs), Regional Ministers, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Ministry of Environment, Science, and Technology. We cannot do this alone, so we are getting all hands on deck”
The Minister added that in order to address concerns about mining licenses, his team has already obtained a substantial amount of material.
“A rigorous inspection regime will be implemented to review and revoke licenses of companies engaged in illegal activities. This process will help weed out bad actors,” he added.
Hon. Buah underlined the necessity of group solidarity while assuring the Coalition of the government’s dedication to resolve the problem.
“Help us, work with us, and give us the time and opportunity to deliver effective results,” he urged.
Source: newsthemegh.com