The politicisation of the illegal small-scale mining (galamsey) issue, especially during elections and allegations of official corruption and political connections shielding illegal miners, a security expert, Col Festus Aboagye (Retired), has said. He says that corruption within regulatory bodies and law enforcement agencies, including gross mismanagement of the small-scale mining sector and uncontrolled licencing regime, has undermined the effectiveness of government initiatives, eroding public trust in the government’s ability to enforce laws.
“Prof Frimpong Boateng’s report (2023), for instance, alleged that many party officials at various levels had associates involved in illegal mining, often employing Chinese workers; appointees in the Jubilee House supported illegal mining; some MPs and government appointees allegedly sold mining concessions for personal gain; traditional authorities and local officials were complicit in allowing illegal mining; and that political interference and corruption undermined efforts to combat illegal mining.
“The Fourth Estate (2024) also reported that several NPP politicians and officials had obtained mining licenses in forest reserves, exploiting the new L.I. 2462 (2022) that permits mining in previously protected areas, including the Oda River, Tano Nimiri and Subri River Forest Reserves. This suggests the law was designed to benefit government associates with prior knowledge.
The Ghana Mining Repository showed 2093 active licences in 2023 (up from 56 between 2009 and 2016), plus 12,779 applications in processing, aside from an unknown number of illegal mining activities. “These reports highlight a significant lack of transparency, potential conflicts of interest, lack of political will, commitment, candour, and sometimes even complicity of officials and engaging in a contest of which political party polluted the most, significantly heightening the damage to Ghana’s already threatened degraded environment and forest reserves,” he said in an article.
Col Festus Aboagye further stated that the impact of illegal small-scale mining in Ghana is profound and multifaceted, affecting the economy, environment, and social fabric of communities. While it provides immediate economic benefits and job opportunities, he said, the long-term consequences of environmental degradation, health risks, and social conflicts pose significant challenges.
The management of small-scale mining and the fight against illegal mining in Ghana present complex challenges that require a multifaceted, sustained approach, he noted. While the government appears to have made significant efforts through legislation, he said, periodic task forces, and community engagement, these efforts have been undermined by corruption and deficits in political will.
“Addressing the root causes of galamsey, such as poverty, lack of alternative livelihoods, and weak governance, is crucial for promoting sustainable practices in the mining sector. A holistic approach incorporating robust community involvement, economic development strategies, and stringent enforcement of laws is essential to create lasting change,” Col Aboagye said.
He added “The path forward must focus on integrating illegal miners into the formal economy, promoting responsible mining practices, and investing in alternative livelihood programmes. This approach should be coupled with strengthened institutional capacity, improved inter-agency collaboration, and enhanced stakeholder engagement. By balancing economic opportunities with environmental conservation and social equity, Ghana can harness the potential of its mineral wealth for sustainable development.
“This will require long-term commitment, adaptive policies, and collaborative efforts from all stakeholders. The success of these efforts will not only secure the future of Ghana’s mining sector but also contribute to the overall well-being of its people and the preservation of its natural resources for generations to come.”
