Hopeson Adorye, Director of Field Operations for the United Party, has proposed a one-year suspension of all small-scale mining activities in Ghana. This drastic measure, he argues, is crucial for environmental recovery and combating the pervasive issue of illegal mining, known locally as ‘galamsey’. The call comes amidst escalating concerns over the destruction of land and water resources, highlighted by a recent fatal incident in Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai.
The ongoing environmental devastation caused by illegal mining, particularly within the small-scale sector, continues to impact Ghana’s forest reserves and rivers. Mr. Adorye voiced these concerns on JoyNews AM Show on Tuesday, May 19, emphasizing the need for more decisive governmental action to address the crisis.
His proposal follows a tragic incident in the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai constituency where one person lost their life and six others were injured. This event has amplified public anxiety regarding the safety and environmental consequences of unregulated mining operations in affected communities.
Mr. Adorye recently witnessed the scale of destruction firsthand during a flight over Sunyani. He described an experience where a pilot provided him with an aerial perspective of the widespread environmental degradation affecting farmlands and vital water bodies.
The pilot reportedly explained how advanced technologies, including GPS coordinates and aerial surveillance, could significantly enhance the identification and disruption of illegal mining sites. This suggestion underscores Mr. Adorye’s belief in the necessity of adopting stronger technological solutions to fight ‘galamsey’.
While acknowledging the widespread need for financial opportunities, Mr. Adorye stressed that economic pursuits should not come at the cost of the nation’s natural heritage. He stated, “Everybody needs money, but not all money should be pursued,” advocating for responsible mining practices that prevent long-term environmental harm.
Under Ghanaian law, all mineral resources are vested in the state. Mr. Adorye asserted that the government must therefore exert stronger control over all mining operations to protect these national assets effectively.
His proposed solution involves a complete cessation of small-scale mining for a year, while permitting large-scale, legal mining operations to continue under stringent oversight. This moratorium, he believes, will provide an essential window for land and water bodies to begin their recovery process.
“I think we should ban mining for one full year. If we see anyone mining during that period, they are on their own. That will allow us to reclaim our lands and let our water bodies recover,” Mr. Adorye suggested.
Furthermore, he stipulated that upon the expiration of this one-year ban, all individuals involved in small-scale mining, irrespective of their current licenses, should be required to reapply. This reapplication process would be subject to significantly stricter conditions.
This measure aims to allow authorities to thoroughly assess concession areas and enforce prohibitions against mining activities near water bodies or other ecologically sensitive zones.
Mr. Adorye also called for the increased utilization of helicopters belonging to the Ghana Armed Forces for continuous aerial monitoring of mining areas. He argued that these valuable resources should be actively deployed for surveillance rather than being primarily reserved for official transport duties.
He further drew a connection between illegal mining and the rise in community insecurity, citing the recent fatalities and injuries in Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai. Mr. Adorye posited that better profiling of individuals involved in illegal mining could contribute to addressing such violent incidents.
Implementing offender profiling and fostering greater community accountability are measures he believes can help curb the escalating menace of illegal mining and its associated societal problems.
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