Former Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Prof. Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, has called on the government to support responsible rock miners in the ongoing fight against galamsey.
In an exclusive interview with Joy News monitored by MyNewsGh.com, Prof. Frimpong-Boateng explained that the activities of these rock miners do not harm water bodies in the same way as galamsey operations.
He emphasized that rock miners go underground to extract rocks, crush them, and extract gold without damaging the environment.
“If you want to help the miners, support those doing rock mining. They go underground, extract the rocks, crush them, and extract the gold. They don’t destroy water bodies,” he stated.
He urged the government to identify rock miners, provide them with the necessary equipment, and offer proper training to ensure sustainable mining practices.
Additionally, he called for support for small-scale miners and advocated for a complete ban on mining in forest areas and water bodies.
This statement comes amid growing concerns over illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as “galamsey.”
Many groups and institutions, including the Christian Council of Ghana, have voiced their support for a decisive and total ban on illegal mining.
The call from the religious body coincides with the increasing detrimental effects of galamsey on the environment, local communities, and the nation’s future. These effects have reached critical levels, prompting urgent demands for action.
Reverend Cyril Fayose, General Secretary of the Christian Council, warned that galamsey poses an existential threat to Ghana’s natural resources, particularly its water bodies, farmlands, and ecosystems.
He stressed the urgency of the crisis, stating that it must be addressed without delay.
He further emphasized that beyond the usual condemnations, a comprehensive and well-thought-out strategy is needed to protect Ghana’s future.
