Bono Regional Minister reaffirms commitment to fighting galamsey
Bono Regional Minister, Joseph Addae Akwaboa Esq., has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to combating illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, in the region, stressing that achieving sustainable results will require a collective effort from community members, traditional authorities and other stakeholders.
The Minister made the remarks during a special media engagement focused on illegal mining in the Bono Region at his official residence. He subsequently led journalists on a tour to inspect mining equipment seized by the Regional Security Council (RESEC) from 2025 to date.
The seized items include 11 excavators, several generators, 31 motorbikes, tricycles and water-pumping machines.
Mr Akwaboa said the Regional Security Council remained committed to the fight against illegal mining despite the introduction of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), which has taken on a broader role in combating the menace.
He explained that he had provided NAIMOS with detailed information on locations and areas affected by illegal mining in the region, including Atronie, to facilitate targeted operations.
The Regional Minister dismissed claims that RESEC had scaled down its operations against illegal mining, insisting that the fight remained a priority for the regional authorities in collaboration with NAIMOS.
He also disclosed that the Blue Water Guards had been deployed in the region to help protect water bodies, particularly the Amoma River in the Berekum West District, from activities that threaten their sustainability.
Mr Akwaboa called for a non-partisan approach to the fight against galamsey, urging political actors, traditional leaders, communities and other stakeholders to work together to eradicate illegal mining from the region.
He said a number of measures had been put in place to address the menace and assured residents that the regional administration would continue to intensify efforts to protect the environment and water resources.