The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has paid a working visit to the Overlord of the Gonja Kingdom, Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I, at the Jakpa Palace in Damongo, as part of renewed efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities.
The visit was aimed at securing the backing of the Gonja overlord in addressing illegal mining, widely known as galamsey, particularly across the Savannah Region and other affected areas.
Mr. Buah reaffirmed the government’s commitment, under the leadership of John Dramani Mahama, to promote responsible and cooperative mining among young people as a sustainable alternative to illegal practices.
He disclosed that government is working to identify mineral-rich zones that can be designated for regulated mining operations, while safeguarding water bodies, farmlands, and the broader environment.
According to the Minister, the Yagbonwura has expressed firm support for the initiative, which aims to balance job creation with environmental protection.
“We are here, more importantly, to seek his support for the fight against illegal mining and the proposals by President Mahama to introduce responsible cooperative mining for the young people in this area,” he stated.
The Yagbonwura, in his response, is said to have pledged his commitment to the anti-galamsey campaign, emphasising the need to protect the region’s natural resources for future generations. He also assured the Minister of his readiness to engage local chiefs and communities to support enforcement efforts and discourage illegal mining activities.
The Minister stressed that tackling galamsey requires not only enforcement but also the creation of viable economic alternatives. He explained that cooperative mining schemes would empower local youth with training, resources, and oversight to operate legally and responsibly.
He added that the initiative would also ensure that benefits from mining activities are retained within communities, contributing to local development and reducing the incentive to engage in destructive practices.
Mr. Buah further highlighted the devastating impact of illegal mining on rivers and farmlands, warning that continued degradation could threaten livelihoods, food security, and public health.
He assured that government would intensify monitoring and enforcement, while collaborating with traditional leaders, security agencies, and local stakeholders to restore degraded lands and protect critical ecosystems.
The engagement at the Jakpa Palace forms part of a broader nationwide strategy to build alliances with traditional authorities in the fight against illegal mining.
Officials say such partnerships are crucial in ensuring community-level compliance and sustaining long-term solutions to one of the country’s most pressing environmental challenges.
Source: Wesleyannews.com
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