Accra: The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has appointed Colonel K S Appiah as its new Director of Operations, succeeding Colonel Dominic Buah. The transition was marked by a ceremony on Thursday, June 11, 2026, aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and sustaining the gains made in Ghana's anti-galamsey efforts.
According to Ghana Web, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, emphasized that the occasion was more than a mere transfer of office equipment and responsibilities. He stated, "What is being handed over today is not merely offices, equipment, and operational responsibilities. It is a national mission to protect Ghana's rivers, forests, mineral wealth, and ultimately the future of our country." The minister highlighted that illegal mining had evolved into a highly organized and well-financed threat, exerting pressure on water bodies, forest reserves, and public confidence.
Despite these challenges, significant progress has been made under the leadership of John Dramani Mahama and the dedication of personnel combating illegal mining. "Much of the progress we have made is due to the sacrifices and commitment of officers who have risked their lives under difficult and dangerous conditions to safeguard our natural resources," Buah noted.
Buah expressed gratitude to the outgoing NAIMOS team, led by Colonel Buah, for its foundational work in the anti-galamsey campaign, urging the incoming team to enhance intelligence gathering, embrace innovation, and uphold integrity. "I charge the new leadership under Colonel K. S. Appiah to build on these gains, deepen collaboration with stakeholders, and remain steadfast in the mission to protect our environment," he added.
In his farewell address, Colonel Dominic Buah, who served as Director of Operations since June 2025, reflected on his tenure as challenging yet rewarding. He highlighted achievements in disrupting illegal mining networks and aiding the recovery of degraded ecosystems. "Our operations have significantly disrupted illegal mining activities and contributed to the gradual recovery of some degraded water bodies and forest reserves," he remarked.
Colonel Buah advised his successor to maintain discipline, transparency, and adherence to the rule of law, emphasizing that these elements are crucial to winning the fight against illegal mining. As he assumed his new role, Colonel Appiah pledged to build on the outgoing administration's achievements and intensify efforts to protect Ghana's natural resources. "I am grateful for the confidence reposed in me. I will work with the team to build on the strong operational foundation that has been laid and intensify efforts to protect our rivers, forests, and mineral resources," he affirmed.
Colonel Appiah also recognized his predecessor's leadership and dedication, assuring stakeholders of his commitment to advancing NAIMOS' mandate in the battle against illegal mining.