Illegal mining, or "Galamsey," has plagued Ghana for years, causing devastating environmental, economic, and social consequences. From the pollution of water bodies to the destruction of farmlands and forests, the activities of illegal miners have left scars that may take decades to heal. Despite various attempts by successive governments to curb this menace, illegal mining continues to thrive. I believe that a stronger, more strategic approach is needed to finally put an end to Galamsey. My strategy, built on four key steps, provides a comprehensive solution to eradicate illegal mining and ensure a sustainable future for Ghana.

Step 1: Enact a Law that Classifies Mining on Water Bodies and Surface Mining in Forest Areas as Eco-Terrorism

The first and most critical step in ending Galamsey is to enact a law that classifies mining on water bodies and surface mining in forest areas as eco-terrorism. These areas are vital to the environmental health of Ghana, and any act of destruction against them should be treated as a serious offense. Under this law, illegal mining in these sensitive areas will be considered a treasonable offense, punishable by the full extent of the law. The term "eco-terrorism" captures the gravity of these actions, as they not only harm the environment but also threaten the livelihoods and health of countless Ghanaians.

This law would apply to both the individuals who physically engage in illegal mining and the powerful figures behind the scenes—those who finance, sponsor, or employ illegal miners. Often, these “big fish” go unpunished while the miners on the ground are scapegoated. To truly stamp out Galamsey, the law must be clear and resolute in holding all parties accountable, regardless of their position or influence.

Step 2: Make the Importation, Sale, and Use of Schanfan Equipment a Capital Offense

One of the main enablers of illegal mining is the use of Schanfan equipment—machines designed to mine gold at an industrial scale, often with little regard for environmental impact. To cut off the tools that fuel Galamsey, I propose that the importation, sale, and use of Schanfan equipment in Ghana be made a capital offense, punishable by a minimum of 25 years in prison. This severe penalty is necessary to send a clear message: the destruction of Ghana's natural resources will no longer be tolerated.

Schanfan equipment has been instrumental in turning small-scale illegal mining into large-scale environmental devastation. By banning and punishing the use of this machinery, we can significantly reduce the capacity of illegal miners to operate at such a destructive scale. This action will cripple the ability of Galamsey operators to cause further harm, while also deterring potential offenders from engaging in the trade.

Step 3: Establish a Permanent Task Force to Monitor and Enforce the Ban

Enacting laws is one thing, but ensuring their enforcement is another. To guarantee that the laws against Galamsey are upheld, I propose the creation of a permanent task force. This task force will be responsible for continuously monitoring mining activities, ensuring compliance with legal standards, and enforcing the bans on illegal mining.

The task force will have a mandate to inspect all mining sites, especially those with permits, to ensure that best practices are followed. Mining companies that fail to adhere to these standards must face penalties, including fines and the revocation of their permits. This level of oversight is crucial, as many illegal activities occur under the guise of legal operations. A dedicated task force, with the power to act swiftly and decisively, will play a vital role in maintaining order and protecting Ghana’s environment from further damage.

Step 4: Install Tracking Devices on All Excavators in the Country

The fourth and final step of my strategy is to introduce a law requiring that all excavators in the country be fitted with tracking devices. These devices will enable the task force to monitor the movement and location of excavators in real time. By doing so, authorities can ensure that excavators are only being used in legal mining areas, while any equipment found in prohibited zones will trigger immediate investigation and action.

Excavators are a key tool in both legal and illegal mining operations, but their misuse in unauthorized areas has contributed significantly to the environmental destruction associated with Galamsey. By tracking their movements, we can prevent illegal mining before it occurs and hold operators accountable for any violations of the law. This technological solution will add a new layer of protection to our forests, rivers, and farmlands, ensuring that mining activities remain within the boundaries of legality and sustainability.

Conclusion

The fight against Galamsey is a fight for the future of Ghana. The environmental damage caused by illegal mining threatens not only our natural resources but also the livelihoods of millions of Ghanaians who depend on clean water and fertile land. My strategy, which includes enacting stricter laws, banning the use of destructive equipment, establishing a permanent task force, and monitoring excavators, offers a comprehensive approach to ending illegal mining once and for all.

It is time for the government, businesses, and citizens to come together and take decisive action. By implementing these steps, we can protect our environment, safeguard the health of our people, and ensure that Ghana’s natural resources are preserved for future generations. The cost of inaction is too high, and the time to act is now.

KwakuDey