Dr. Tony Aubynn has emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in how state funds have been utilized in the fight against illegal mining (galamsey).
Speaking with Joshua Kodjo Mensah on GHOne’s State of Affairs, he underscored the importance of understanding the effectiveness of government efforts to combat the long-standing issue.
“The amount of resources that have gone into this fight, due to environmental concerns, is significant. Some funds were allocated for land rehabilitation, while others were used for alternative livelihood programs.
These are critical areas, and it is important to understand how state money has been utilized,” Dr. Aubynn stated.
He highlighted that even at the initial stages, approximately $300 million was allocated for various studies and projects, including planting initiatives and the rehabilitation of degraded lands.
According to him, funding came from multiple sources, and it is in the nation’s interest to ensure transparency in their application.
“For the sake of transparency, it would benefit the country to thoroughly review how these funds were used,” Dr. Aubynn remarked.
He further stressed that the incoming administration must investigate these expenditures to gain a comprehensive understanding of the government’s effectiveness in addressing the environmental and social challenges posed by illegal mining.
