By: Belinda Nketia.
The Ministry of Information has announced that the government has taken further actions to combat the long-standing issue of illegal small-scale mining.
According to a press release issued by the Ministry , signed by Madam Fatimatu Abubakar, as part of the intensified efforts, government has concluded operational measures to boost the ongoing ‘Operation Halt’, led by the Ghana Armed Forces. This operation aims to completely rid river bodies of all mining activities and will be conducted in collaboration with the Small Scale Miners Association.
The statement by the Ministry of Information highlighted some Key Takeaways that supports the government’s plan of action. This plan of action comes on the back of organised labour’s refusal to withdraw its stance on a nationwide strike after a meeting with the President. The key takeaways include:
Forest Reserves and River Bodies Remain Red Zones: The government reaffirms that these areas are strictly off-limits to mining activities.
Collaboration with Small Scale Miners Association: The government will work closely with the association to ensure a coordinated effort.
Call to Action: The government urges all stakeholders to join the fight against illegal small-scale mining.
As the fight against galamsey gains momentum, Ghanaians await tangible results from these intensified efforts.
Meanwhile, the Association of the Responsible Small Scale Miners have threatened a protest against the position of Organised labour to stage a nationwide sit down strike against the government’s refusal to declare a state of emergency on the high rising issue of galamsey.
Find Statement here
