The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has proposed a strategic plan to eliminate illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, especially in forest reserves and water bodies.
The King’s suggestion, presented during a courtesy visit by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, aims to address the root causes of the issue and ensure sustainable mining practices.
Otumfuo recommends that the government declare a moratorium and grant amnesty to all major illegal mining financiers.
This period should be used to register and document the key figures in the sector, providing them with proper training in responsible mining practices. The King suggested that these trained operators be allocated designated concessions away from critical water bodies and forest reserves.
Additionally, Otumfuo proposed a government-controlled purchasing system, where the state would serve as the sole buyer of minerals extracted by these miners. According to him, this arrangement would disrupt illegal market operations and ensure accountability.
“If we don’t adopt such an approach, addressing this menace will remain difficult. The current method focuses on arresting young men while the real financiers remain untouched. We need to target the masterminds, offer them structured opportunities, and formalise their operations,” Otumfuo explained.
The Asantehene believes that this approach could also address the high rate of youth unemployment, as many young people involved in galamsey could transition into legal mining jobs with proper training and government oversight.
During the meeting held at Manhyia Palace on February 14, 2025, the new Minister for Lands and Natural Resources revealed that 44 out of Ghana’s 288 forest reserves are currently under attack, with nine controlled by what he described as ‘untouchable’ syndicates. Of these nine, three are located in the Ashanti Region.
“These groups are wreaking havoc on our forests, and no one seems capable of restraining them,” the Minister lamented.
Otumfuo’s proposed solution aims to shift the focus from ineffective arrests to a more comprehensive strategy that addresses the root of illegal mining.
By engaging the key players, providing them with legitimate opportunities, and ensuring government involvement in mineral sales, the Asantehene believes that Ghana can protect its natural resources while promoting economic growth.
Source: NewsandVibes.com
