Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, has said that President John Dramani Mahama will launch an unprecedented and unrelenting assault on unlawful small-scale mining, also known as galamsey.
The announcement comes after eight individuals were killed in a helicopter crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region on August 6, including Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed.
Speaking to press on Thursday, August 14, Mr. Ablakwa stated that the President has made it clear that the illicit mining issue will be tackled with unwavering commitment.
“I can assure you that you will witness a fight that has never been seen in this country. President Mahama will lead a brutal and persistent struggle against galamsey.
“He did not hold back.” During a brief cabinet meeting, the President made it clear that he would spearhead a unique battle to eradicate the existential threat we confront.
Mr. Ablakwa stated that the planned steps will usher in a new phase of the government’s anti-galamsey campaign, with decisive policies and actions targeted at protecting the environment, saving water resources, and maintaining livelihoods in impacted communities.
