By: Sarah Baafi
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has called on the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) to actively support the fight against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey. He stressed that UTAG’s expertise and resources are vital to combating the environmental destruction caused by galamsey.
“We need your commitment and collaboration to address this menace,” he said, highlighting UTAG’s historical advocacy against the devastating effects of illegal mining on Ghana’s water bodies and forests.
Mr Buah outlined a five-pillar strategy to tackle galamsey, including strengthening law enforcement, stakeholder engagement, reforming mining permits, reclaiming degraded lands, and providing alternative livelihoods for affected communities. He also emphasized government initiatives like the Blue Water Initiative to protect water bodies and the Tree for Life reforestation project aimed at planting 20 million trees nationwide.
“This is a fight for our life and future,” he noted, reaffirming the government’s resolve to eradicate galamsey without fear or favor.
UTAG President, Professor Mamudu A. Akudugu, expressed the association’s readiness to assist through research on galamsey’s environmental and social impacts. He proposed capacity-building programs for stakeholders and urged the Ministry to monitor emerging hotspots.
“We will hold the government accountable and develop tailored solutions,” he stressed, pledging UTAG’s unwavering support in combating illegal mining.
The collaborative efforts aim to restore Ghana’s natural resources while promoting sustainable development.
