Effiduase-Asokore MP advocates for the use of dialogue instead of force in galamsey fight

Dr. Nana Ayew Afriye, the Member of Parliament for Effiduase Asokore and Chairman of Parliament’s Health Committee, has called for a more diplomatic approach to addressing Ghana’s galamsey crisis.

Speaking to student journalists at OTEC School of Journalism on Friday, October 25, 2024, Dr. Ayew Afriye emphasised that violence by security forces is not the solution.

Instead, he advocated for dialogue with illegal miners to understand the root causes of their activities.

He believes that collaborative solutions will be more effective in addressing the challenges posed by illegal mining, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to governance and resource management in the country.

Dr. Ayew Afriye noted that this stance is aligned with Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s vision for combating galamsey.

By promoting dialogue and understanding, Dr. Ayew Afriye hopes to find sustainable solutions to Ghana’s galamsey crisis, protecting the environment and communities while addressing the complex issues surrounding illegal mining.

During the discussion, Dr. Ayew Afriye stressed that resorting to ‘shoot to kill’ is not the solution, advocating instead for dialogue with illegal miners. Students actively participated by asking questions and seeking insights into the complexities of the issue.