Galamsey Menace Returns

An open letter to the President, published today, has highlighted the worrying trend of excavators returning to Samreboi, despite a devastating flood that ravaged the region.

“The same farm, incidentally, that he already knows has been sold. Everybody knows the visitor did not travel all the way from Kumasi to conduct a census of family wellbeing, but difficult matters must first be escorted into the room by good manners.”

The author of the letter, a clear advocate for addressing galamsey, begins by acknowledging the tradition of Ghanaian culture, where difficult matters are approached with caution. However, this approach is seen as a hindrance to effective action against illegal mining.

The letter emphasizes that the country's inability to learn from its mistakes is reflected in the return of excavators to Samreboi, following a devastating flood that left homes submerged and families displaced.

A devastating flood in Samreboi, caused by the overflowing of the Tano and Samre rivers, has led to a renewed concern about the country's commitment to tackling illegal mining. The flood has been followed by the return of excavators, sparking fears that the government may not be taking the necessary steps to address this menace.

Galamsey, or illegal mining, has long been a challenge for Ghana, with many communities affected by the environmental degradation and health risks associated with this activity.

The author of the letter expresses frustration with the repeated occurrence of galamsey activities in Ghana, citing the numerous task forces, committees, and investigations that have failed to yield any meaningful result.

In the letter, the author points out that the fight against galamsey cannot continue to begin and end with the poorest man standing, stating that someone owns the machine, finances the operation, and buys the gold, suggesting that there may be someone powerful enough to make the right telephone call at the right time.

The author concludes by emphasizing the need for enforcement, deterrence, and political will to tackle the galamsey menace, stating that repeated behavior can no longer be explained away as foolishness when the danger is known, the consequences have been witnessed, and the warnings have been given.

Key Facts

  • Devastating flood in Samreboi caused by overflowing of Tano and Samre rivers.
  • Excavators returned to Samreboi after the flood.
  • Open letter to the President highlights the worrying trend of galamsey activities.
  • Author of the letter advocates for effective action against illegal mining.
  • Ghana has long struggled with galamsey, causing environmental degradation and health risks.