Report By: News Desk
Renowned Ghanaian investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni has voiced significant doubts regarding the government’s recent initiatives aimed at combating illegal mining, commonly referred to as ‘galamsey‘.
He has raised questions about the authenticity and long-term viability of these efforts. During his participation in the ‘Anatomy of Returnee Presidency’ series, organized by Gold Coast University on May 9, Mr. Awuni pointed out that despite the government’s high-profile declarations to prohibit illegal mining and initiate environmental restoration projects, such as tree planting and water conservation programs, these actions have historically proven ineffective.
He expressed his lack of enthusiasm for the current measures, emphasizing that the real test lies in their execution. He noted, ‘Banning illegal mining and launching tree and water initiatives are not novel concepts.
I have reported on tree planting efforts in northern Ghana under SADA, which ultimately failed.’ Mr. Awuni further criticized the current strategies, suggesting they replicate past ineffective approaches, stating, ‘In my view, there is nothing fundamentally different from previous attempts.
The same tactics are employed—deploying soldiers to make arrests, and in some respects, the situation has deteriorated.’ He specifically condemned the government’s apparent unwillingness to prosecute foreign nationals, particularly Chinese individuals involved in illegal mining, remarking, ‘It is particularly troubling that the government has adopted a policy of not prosecuting Chinese nationals.
They are often allowed to leave without consequence, which I find illogical.’ In conclusion, Mr. Awuni expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of the government’s actions against illegal mining, stating, ‘I have yet to witness any substantial progress in the fight against illegal mining.’
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com
