President Akufo-Addo Orders Reinforcement of Anti-Galamsey Task Force Amid Growing Pressure from Labour Unions

President Akufo-Addo has directed the Minister of Defence to deploy additional military personnel to strengthen “Operation Halt,” the government’s initiative aimed at stopping illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey. The operation will specifically target areas around water bodies and forest reserves, which have been heavily impacted by these unlawful activities.

This directive comes after increased pressure from Organised Labour, which had threatened a nationwide strike if the government did not take firmer action against galamsey. The unions demanded an immediate halt to illegal mining to prevent further environmental degradation.

In a statement released on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, the Presidency announced that the reinforced operation would include naval boats patrolling polluted rivers. The military forces will enforce a stringent ban on all mining activities, whether legal or illegal, within designated “red zones.” The government emphasized that mining in these areas will be strictly prohibited and vowed to take decisive action against violators.

The President’s order aims to bring an immediate end to activities that are damaging Ghana’s natural resources. The additional military personnel will focus on safeguarding water bodies and forest reserves across the country.

Meanwhile, Organised Labour has decided to suspend its planned nationwide strike, which was scheduled for Thursday, October 10. The decision followed an emergency meeting on October 9, during which union leaders reviewed the situation and agreed to call off the strike.

The suspension was prompted by assurances from the government to tackle illegal mining, including the intensification of Operation Halt, led by the Ghana Armed Forces. At a media briefing, Trades Union Congress (TUC) Secretary General Joshua Ansah noted that the suspension would allow Labour to monitor the government’s actions in addressing illegal mining.

Organised Labour expressed hope that these recent government efforts would yield meaningful results in the ongoing battle against illegal mining in Ghana.