Nana Biribireba Boateng, a renowned mining expert and CEO of Christal Mining Consult, has shed light on the complexities surrounding the fight against galamsey, or illegal mining, in Ghana.
Speaking in an interview with Kojo Marfo on AbusuaNkommo at AbusuaFM, Nana Boateng emphasized that effective leadership and community cooperation are crucial in tackling this environmental and economic menace.
Nana Biribireba Boateng, who has known the Ashanti Regional Security Coordinator, Capt. John Kwame Jabari, since 2010, expressed confidence in his ability to combat galamsey if adequately supported by the Regional Minister.
“With Capt. Jabari as the regional security coordinator, if he couldn’t fully combat galamsey, it’s unlikely anyone else can. I knew Capt. Jabari from 2010 to 2013 and witnessed the remarkable work he accomplished during that period. Considering how things have evolved since his departure from office, particularly in the mining sector, it is truly unfortunate”, Boateng noted.
He highlighted the importance of Capt. Jabari’s support in empowering the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene to take decisive action against illegal mining.
“I am confident that with Capt. Jabari’s support, which he will undoubtedly extend to the Regional Minister, they can effectively fight illegal mining if they commit to it.”
Boateng stressed the need for mining companies to adhere to comprehensive practices, including open-pit mining, reclamation, and reafforestation.
“Before leaving a site, companies must ensure that the land is restored to its natural state,” he emphasized. This includes planting trees and ensuring that the environment is protected for future generations.
Boateng pointed out that part of the blame for the persistence of galamsey lies with local communities and chiefs. Despite laws prohibiting mining within 100 meters of rivers, some chiefs claim these areas as their own, undermining efforts to enforce regulations.
He said “Part of the blame for why illegal mining is becoming a difficult issue to address can be placed on the community where the mining is occurring. The chiefs (Nananom) and regulatory bodies are also to blame because there is a law stating that mining is prohibited within 100 meters of a river. However, a chief will come and claim that the area belongs to the chiefs (Nananom) so leave it for them”.
Additionally, Nana Boateng noted that chiefs sometimes instruct miners not to reclaim land after operations, leading to practices like “Kurikuri,” where land is left unreclaimed for others to exploit.
Boateng also criticized regulatory bodies for failing to enforce existing laws effectively. “The lack of enforcement allows illegal mining to thrive,” he stated. This oversight not only harms the environment but also deprives the state of much-needed revenue.
Source: www.kumasimail.com/ Kwadwo Owusu
