President John Dramani Mahama has emphasized that the battle against illegal mining, which has proven challenging, involves individuals deeply entrenched in the illicit trade across various political and social spheres. He however insists that the fight must persist.
Speaking during a high level meeting at the Jubilee House with Organised Labour on Tuesday March 17, the President observed that the galamsey menace has woven into our society’s political and traditional fabric, making the fight exceedingly complex.
“Illegal mining has significantly undermined the structure of our society. It poses a significant threat to our society and this involves a network of traditional rulers, political party appointees, and more”, he said.
President Mahama noted that persons involved in the activity often switch allegiance when there is change of government allowing the practice to go on.
“When there’s a change in government, those in charge of an operation will defect to the other side and approach the newcomer and offer to split the spoils. Therefore, I am fully aware that our own people are part.”
He acknowledged that the operations of the anti-illegal mining task force are very difficult, particularly in areas with significant opposition.
He said that the increase in illicit mining is partially attributable to the reduced producer prices of cocoa, compelling farmers to forsake their agricultural pursuits for galamsey.
“And this makes matters worse when the cocoa sector is experiencing a crisis. Some cocoa farmers abandoned their fields in favor of gold mining due to the poor prices given”, he noted.
The President conveyed a positive outlook regarding the stabilization of cocoa prices, suggesting that it could deter farmers from engaging in illegal mining. He also said that the government is developing a pricing structure to guarantee that farmers earn a reasonable portion of the global price for cocoa.
The President identified logistical deficiencies, specifically noting the absence of patrol boats necessary for overseeing Ghana’s crucial waterways.
In order to maintain the crackdown, he reassured the good people of Ghana that the ministries of finance, defense, and interior are working together to supply the required equipment and security facilities.
