Story By: Akua Oteng Amponsah
Declaring a state of emergency over illegal mining in Ghana would be premature, according to Mustapha Gbande, Deputy Director of Operations at the Presidency and Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
Mr. Gbande believes the government’s ongoing measures to combat illegal mining are visible and effective.
“We shouldn’t be so quick to call for a state of emergency. This is not something you simply impose,” Mr. Gbande stated. He highlighted the progress made in reclaiming forest reserves, saying, “Look at the situation today, forest reserves have effectively become no-go areas. We have witnessed calculated, precise military operations targeting these hotspots. The evidence is clear: many of these forest reserves are being reclaimed.”
Mr. Gbande also emphasized improvements in institutional efficiency, noting that responsible institutions are functioning more effectively than ever before. He questioned the need for a state of emergency when the economy is showing signs of revival, partly due to gold regulations.
“Would you say we are doing nothing? Should we suddenly declare a state of emergency now, when the cedi is stabilizing and the economy is showing signs of revival largely thanks to gold regulations?” he asked.
He praised the dedication of key government officials, including the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and the Minister for the Interior, who have shown resolve in extraditing and arresting offenders.
Mr. Gbande reiterated the government’s stance on illegal mining: “Anyone involved in illegal mining will face the full force of the law. It is therefore incumbent upon all of us to expose those, both within and outside government, who have engaged in or supported illegal mining.”
Emphasizing the need for careful management, Mr. Gbande stated, “This is a matter we must handle with tact,” rather than rushing into decisions. His comments come amid calls from various groups, including the Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey and the Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations (GUTA), for the government to declare a state of emergency to tackle the menace of illegal mining.
