Galamsey out of control as gov’t struggles for solutions — Clement Abaidoo

Guards trained under 'Blue Water' initiative to protect river bodies with Lands Minister, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah

The Executive Director of the Center for Environment, Natural Resources, and Sustainability (CENS) Africa, Clement Abaidoo, has expressed disappointment in the government’s approach to tackling illegal mining (galamsey) in Ghana, describing it as ineffective and confused.

His comments come in reaction to the government’s newly launched Blue Water Guard initiative, aimed at training thousands of Ghanaian youth to protect the country’s water bodies from the devastating impact of illegal mining.

Under the initiative, at least 2,000 recruits will undergo specialized training by the Ghana Navy Riverine Command, in collaboration with the Minerals Commission.

The first batch of 460 trainees is expected to be deployed soon to galamsey-affected communities to combat illegal mining activities on river bodies.

Speaking at the launch, Lands Minister Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah described the initiative as a "comprehensive strategy" to protect Ghana’s water bodies and promote sustainable environmental practices.

However, Clement Abaidoo is skeptical, arguing that the government lacks a clear and effective strategy in the fight against galamsey.

"The government is confused about fighting galamsey," he said, questioning whether the water guards would be adequately trained to handle firearms and apprehend illegal miners.

He referenced past efforts, such as the deployment of soldiers, which failed to yield the desired results.

According to Abaidoo, the real solution does not lie in deploying security forces but in implementing sustainable measures that will effectively protect the environment and water bodies from illegal mining activities.

During an interview on Peace FM’s “Kokrokoo” morning show, he stated, "We need to be very comprehensive with this galamsey fight... Let’s not play politics with it. Regardless of our political affiliations, we must admit that galamsey is now out of control.”