Convener of the OneGhana Movement, Senyo Hosi, says Ghana’s fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, has failed and needs a fundamental change in strategy.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, November 14, he argued that raids and military operations alone cannot end the practice without addressing the economic and political interests behind it.
“The fight against galamsey has failed. We should stop going around the bush. It has failed,” he said.
Mr Hosi called for a comprehensive approach that tackles the financial incentives driving illegal mining, provides alternative livelihoods for affected communities and protects the environment.
He warned that enforcement operations without economic alternatives could deepen tensions between residents and security personnel.
He also questioned politicians’ commitment to taking the difficult decisions needed to confront powerful interests benefiting from galamsey.
“If you want to win this, you will win it. The only thing is that it comes at a certain cost. Politicians will not want to pay,” he stated.
He urged the government to move beyond repeated raids and adopt a sustainable strategy to end illegal mining.
