Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has urged Members of Parliament, particularly those from mining regions, to take decisive action in supporting the government’s renewed efforts to combat illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.

Speaking at the Parliamentarians Conference on Restoring the Culture of Small-Scale Mining in Ghana, Professor Opoku-Agyemang emphasized that MPs have a crucial role in addressing the ongoing environmental destruction caused by unlawful mining activities.

She called on them to complement government interventions by actively engaging their constituents and advocating for responsible mining practices.

"Over the years, we have witnessed an alarming level of environmental degradation caused by illegal and irresponsible mining practices. Our forests are being degraded; our water bodies are being heavily polluted, rendering our lands barren. This is not only threatening our ecosystem but has also jeopardized the livelihoods of many communities that depend on these natural resources. All three water-basin systems in the country are under threat! We have lost forty-four of our forest reserves to illegal mining activities, and it would cost us several hundred thousands to reclaim. The public outcry on this issue is a testament to the urgency with which we must act," she stated.

She commended the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, for implementing new strategies to address the menace, stressing that an all-hands-on-deck approach was required to restore Ghana’s environment.

The Vice President underscored the need for Parliament’s involvement in the fight against galamsey, saying their influence in shaping policies and ensuring their enforcement within their respective constituencies was critical.

"You, our Honourable Members, are not only lawmakers but also the direct representatives of the people most affected by the impact of mining activities. We have seen the effects of pollution of our water bodies in the very communities we oversee – babies born with birth defects, stillbirths, and the like. It is, therefore, fitting that we convene here today to engage in meaningful dialogue and orientation on how we can collectively tackle this national concern.

"The Government of Ghana recognizes that restoring responsible mining practices requires a multi-stakeholder approach. This is why we have outlined deliberate steps to curb illegal mining, regulate the sector effectively, and ensure that small-scale mining is conducted in a manner that benefits the economy and the local communities without compromising our environment. We appreciate that this is a battle that cannot be fought by the government alone, and we acknowledge the crucial role of Parliament in shaping policies, providing oversight, and ensuring compliance within the constituencies you serve," she added.

Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, echoed the Vice President’s call for immediate action, warning that the unchecked destruction of Ghana’s forests, water bodies, and farmlands posed a serious threat to the country’s future.

"One of the most pressing issues facing our country today is the sustainable management of our natural resources and hydrology. At the heart of this challenge is the need to revive a culture of responsible, multi-scale mining," he noted.

The minister emphasized the public’s growing frustration over illegal mining and urged parliamentarians to demonstrate stronger leadership in tackling the issue.

"Our destiny, my friends, is in our hands. It is deeply unsettling to reflect on the environmental devastation we have witnessed over the past two decades," he remarked.

Buah issued a stern warning to individuals engaged in illegal mining, stressing that the government would no longer tolerate such activities.

"What is different this time is that the Presidency will not condone any illegalities whatsoever, and regardless of your social status, when caught, you will face the law and there will be no one to bail you out," he cautioned.

The Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, also addressed the gathering, explaining that the forum aimed to rally MPs to support the government’s efforts in curbing the small-scale mining crisis.

He highlighted the importance of parliamentary involvement, stating that since every small-scale mining operation occurs within a constituency, lawmakers must work closely with the Lands Ministry to find sustainable solutions to the menace.

The conference brought together key stakeholders, including environmental experts, industry players, and legislators, to deliberate on sustainable strategies for Ghana’s small-scale mining sector. Discussions centered on balancing economic growth with environmental conservation, ensuring that mining activities benefit both present and future generations.