Accra: The Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Forestry Commission, Elikem Kotoko, has asserted that Ghana is making progress in its fight against illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, despite ongoing challenges. According to Kotoko, the nature of illegal mining complicates efforts to address the issue, making it clear that it cannot be resolved overnight.
According to Ghana Web, Kotoko explained in an interview on TV3 that the government's persistent efforts are steering the country in the right direction. He noted, "Are we still where we used to be? The answer is no. Are we where we want to be? The answer is still no, but are we on the right path? The answer is certainly yes."
Kotoko acknowledged that while previous task forces had not always delivered expected results, he commended the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) for its ongoing actions in combatting illegal mining. He rejected claims that NAIMOS merely duplicates earlier initiatives, emphasizing its unique approach to the issue.
He reiterated the government's commitment to prioritizing the fight against illegal mining, stressing the importance of sustained efforts to safeguard Ghana's forests and environment. Kotoko affirmed that more work is required to fully address the menace, with the government continuing its initiatives to protect the nation's natural resources.