The “Fight against Galamsey” in 2023

Illegal or unregulated mining in Ghana, known locally as “galamsey” remains a major headache to Ghanaians and political leaders. Illegal mining has caused irreparable damage to the environment and as part of plans to clamp down on this pressing environmental and social issue, the authorities continue to step up the effort to control this disturbing situation.

In 2023, the Minerals Commission installed tracking apps on several escavators, and earthmoving equipment as part of the measures to curb the high incidence of illegal mining.
Also, personnel of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) under the Operation Halt II (OP HALT II) seized items from galamsey operators including escavators, changfang machines and heavy- duty water pumps.
As the authorities worked around the clock to deal with the problem, the Asantehene Otumfuor Osei Tutu, in 2022, reached out to the US with an appeal for assistance, in the galamsey fight. The US government in 2023 accepted to help Ghana in the clamp down on galamsey activities.
Also, the United Kingdom has pledged £3.9million to support the fight against the country’s illegal mining menace. A programme, dubbed the ‘UK-Ghana Gold Mining Programme was initiated, to eliminate illegalities associated with the small-scale mining sector.
When he convened a meeting of the National House of Chiefs in October, 2022, the President, Nana Akufo-Addo called on traditional rulers and all stakeholders to collaborate in the galamsey fight, which has now escalated into a menace.
“If we are to win the fight, you and I have to take the lead to collaborate closely to do so. That is why I am here today,” said the President.
According to the President, about 80 percent of the lands in Ghana are under the custody of Chiefs, whereas the remaining 20 percent was held in trust by the state.
The year ended with galamsey kingpin and Chinese national, En Huang, popularly known as Aisha Huang, being sentenced to four and a half years in prison plus a fine of GH¢48,000 for engaging in illegal mining in Ghana and is to be deported after serving her jail term.