Forestry Commission: Over 800 Illegal Miners Arrested Since 2023, Foresters Call for Dialogue to Combat Galamsey

The Forestry Commission has announced that over 800 illegal miners have been arrested since 2023 as part of a joint security task force initiative aimed at curbing illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, in Ghana’s forest reserves and water bodies.

Progress in the Fight Against Illegal Mining

The Commission’s Chief Executive Officer, John Allotey, highlighted that the renewed crackdown has resulted in a reduction of illegal mining activities. Speaking at the 27th Annual General Meeting of the Ghana Institute of Foresters, Allotey revealed that the task force has not only apprehended illegal miners but also demolished unauthorized structures within forest reserves and confiscated equipment through legal processes.

“Since 2023, the forest service division, supported by the rapid response team, has intensified enforcement, resulting in the arrest of over 800 illegal miners and the dismantling of several illegal operations,” Allotey stated.

Environmental Impact of Galamsey

Illegal mining continues to devastate Ghana’s environment, with over 2.5 million hectares of forest cover lost and several water bodies rendered unusable. Across various forest reserves, mining pits now dot the landscape, further highlighting the urgency of tackling the issue.

Calls for Practical Solutions

The theme of the meeting, “Mining in Forest Reserves in Ghana: New Developments and the Way Forward,” brought together stakeholders, including researchers and academics, to deliberate on sustainable approaches.

Allotey proposed two potential strategies to combat the menace:

1. Banning all forms of mining in forest reserves and alluvial mining completely.
2. Allowing limited hard-rock mining in exceptional cases where the socioeconomic benefits are significant while ensuring environmental stewardship.

He argued that the second option is more practical, balancing responsible mining with environmental conservation.

Foresters Push for Collaboration

Despite these efforts, the Ghana Institute of Foresters has expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s failure to fully incorporate their recommendations into anti-galamsey policies.

“We are unhappy the government has ignored opinions from us and other stakeholders,” said Dr. Abukari Atta Nantongmah, President of the Institute. He stressed the need for a collaborative approach that prioritizes reforestation and sustainable mining practices.

The Institute called for better coordination and dialogue among stakeholders, including miners, government agencies, and local communities, to find lasting solutions to the problem.

A Path Forward

As illegal mining continues to pose a severe threat to Ghana’s environment and natural resources, stakeholders agree on the urgency of addressing the issue. A mix of strict enforcement, sustainable mining practices, and inclusive dialogue may be the way forward to save the country’s forests and water bodies from further destruction.