GNASSM Secretary Rejects Calls for State of Emergency in Galamsey Fight
The Ashanti Chapter Secretary of the Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners (GNASSM), Mr. Michael Adu Gyamfi, has dismissed growing calls for a state of emergency to combat illegal mining (galamsey), describing such demands as a “misplaced priority.”
According to him, the regulatory framework governing small-scale mining already prohibits operations in forest reserves and water bodies, which are designated as “red zones.” He argued that the real challenge lies in enforcement rather than new emergency declarations.
“Numerous calls for a state of emergency are misplaced. Those making these calls do not fully appreciate the small-scale mining architecture. The framework already provides for such restrictions; what is lacking is effective protection and enforcement by state authorities,” he stated.
Mr. Adu Gyamfi cautioned that a state of emergency could infringe on the rights of innocent individuals engaged in legitimate activities. He added that the use of force in combating galamsey has proven counterproductive.
“The forceful approach has outlived its usefulness and only creates opportunities for worse situations,” he noted, urging government to redesign its strategy by promoting responsible and sustainable small-scale mining.
He proposed that the composition of the anti-galamsey taskforce be revised to include mining engineers, environmental experts, and other professionals who can guide and sensitize miners, rather than relying solely on security personnel. This, he suggested, would transform the current “hostile cloud” around the taskforce into a more collaborative and educational effort.
The GNASSM secretary also commended former President John Mahama for his recent comments on the fight against illegal mining, describing them as a sign of a growing understanding of the mining sector. However, he urged the former President to go further in advocating for sustainable solutions.
“President Mahama’s comments show he is beginning to understand the mining architecture. But we expect more from him. Small-scale mining, if managed well, is more beneficial than many anticipate,” he said.
Mr. Adu Gyamfi concluded by echoing Mr. Mahama’s position that declaring a state of emergency should be a last resort, only after all practical and collaborative approaches have been fully explored.
