The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has announced the government's intensified strategy to combat illegal mining, by introducing mercury-free machines to eradicate the use of harmful mercury in mining operations.

During a briefing with members of the media on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, as part of a renewed effort to tackle the devastating effects of illegal small-scale mining (galamsey), the Lands Minister outlined the government's dual approach, which involves both the enforcement of strict regulations and the reform of the small-scale mining sector.

He explained that the ongoing battle against illegal mining is built on two main pillars: reformative measures and law enforcement.

A key component of the reformative strategy is the issuance of mercury-free machines to miners, which is expected to significantly reduce the pollution of water bodies caused by the use of harmful chemicals in gold extraction.

When miners use mercury to amalgamate gold, the mercury is mixed with sediment and then washed away. This mercury can enter rivers and streams directly. Mercury can also enter water bodies indirectly through atmospheric deposition. When mercury is released into the air from mining activities, it can settle into water bodies through rainfall, per research.

The other reformative measures include the Community Mining Scheme, improvement of the licensing regime, and providing alternative livelihoods for those displaced by illegal mining activities.

The enforcement arm of the strategy includes the deployment of the "Operation Halt" taskforce, the decommissioning of excavators, and the imprisonment of individuals found guilty of illegal mining activities.

Mr Jinapor further highlighted that regional ministers, alongside their respective Regional Security Councils (REGSEC), have been tasked with intensifying enforcement actions to curb galamsey activities within their jurisdictions.

The Lands Minister highlighted the importance of collaboration between various governmental agencies, traditional authorities, civil society organizations, and local communities in educating the public about the dangers of galamsey and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable.

He expressed confidence in the renewed strategy, stating, "With the support of all stakeholders, I am certain that this fight will yield the necessary results for the benefit of the country."

The Ministry also announced plans for enhanced cooperation with National Security, the Ghana Armed Forces, and other relevant institutions to ensure strict enforcement of mining laws across the country.

Furthermore, the Minerals Commission will continue its efforts to formalize the small-scale mining sector, with a particular focus on expanding responsible community mining schemes that prioritize environmental preservation.

As the government steps up its fight against illegal mining, Hon. Jinapor called on the media to play a pivotal role in raising awareness and supporting efforts to bring an end to the galamsey canker.

The Minister concluded, "The fight against illegal mining is a national priority, and with a unified front, we can protect our waterbodies, preserve our environment, and secure the future for generations to come."

Looming protests against galamsey

Organised Labour, led by the Trades Union Congress (TUC), has issued a strong ultimatum to the government, threatening to initiate a nationwide strike by the end of September if decisive measures are not taken to tackle the growing crisis of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.

The call for action is the latest in a series of demands from various unions and civil society groups, all pushing for urgent intervention to combat the environmental destruction caused by the practice.

UTAG has announced its intention to launch a nationwide protest unless the government imposes a comprehensive ban on galamsey by September 30.

At the same time, the Chamber of Agribusiness is spearheading a campaign to draw attention to the severe impact of illegal mining on agriculture. In collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and other international bodies, the Chamber aims to raise awareness of the destruction of over 1.2 million hectares of farmland due to galamsey operations.