Ghana Armed Forces’ ‘Operation Halt’ teams up with small scale miners to fight mining in river bodies

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has announced a new collaboration with small-scale miners as part of its ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining, commonly known as "galamsey."

The initiative aims to promote responsible mining practices while intensifying the fight against galamsey, ultimately seeking to eliminate all forms of mining activities in river bodies.

In a press statement issued by the Ministry of Information on Wednesday, October 9, it reiterated government’s commitment in combating the galamsey menace which has caused significant environmental damage across the country.

“Government in its continued efforts to clamp down on the long-standing menace of Illegal Small-Scale Mining, has concluded operational measures to intensify the ongoing "Operation Halt" which is led by the Ghana Armed forces, to rid our river bodies of all forms of mining activities,” parts of the statement read.

According to the statement, partnering with miners who operate legally will help identify and expose illegal operators, enabling more efficient enforcement of laws and regulations in affected areas.

The collaboration will also focus on educating miners about sustainable mining practices and the harmful effects of galamsey on water bodies, forests, and farmlands.

“This phase of the operation will be done in conjunction with the Small-Scale Miners Association of Ghana. Government reasserts that river bodies and forest reserves remain red zones.”

The statement added, “Government reiterates its commitment to the fight against illegal small-scale mining and calls on all stakeholders to join the fight.”

Several Ghanaians and organisations have questioned the government’s commitment and readiness to combat the menace of illegal mining.

Protests against illegal mining activities have been held continuously over the past few weeks, with Organized Labour and other prominent organizations threatening to embark on strike actions to pressure the government to declare a state of emergency in mining areas.

MAG/AE