The Minority Caucus in Parliament has sharply criticised the government over what it describes as a weak and ineffective response to illegal small-scale mining, warning that continued inaction poses a serious threat to Ghana’s environment, agriculture, and water resources.
Addressing the media at a press conference, Kwaku Ampratwum Sarpong, the Ranking Member on the Parliamentary Committee on Lands and Natural Resources, said galamsey has become deeply rooted in several communities, including Ellembele and Bole Bamboi.
According to him, the impact on livelihoods and natural resources has been devastating.
“Farmers are losing their means of survival. Rivers and lakes are being polluted. Forest reserves are under constant attack,” he stated.
Although the Judiciary has assigned three High Court judges to handle cases submitted by the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), Mr Ampratwum Sarpong argued that enforcement on the ground remains weak and inconsistent.
He revealed that NAIMOS officers have faced violent resistance, with reports of attacks on personnel, destruction of equipment, and disruption of operations.
“Arrests are made, but within days, illegal miners return to the same locations. This selective and inconsistent enforcement only encourages lawlessness,” he added.
The Ranking Member further alleged that influential individuals, including some Members of Parliament, are connected to illegal mining activities but are rarely held accountable.
Meanwhile, he said, only low-level operatives are prosecuted. “This is outrageous, unacceptable, and deeply unfair. The people of Ghana are watching,” he warned.
The Minority Caucus is therefore calling on the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources to take urgent action by ensuring thorough investigations, consistent prosecutions, and firm enforcement of the law to safeguard Ghana’s natural resources for future generations.
