Accra:President John Dramani Mahama has announced the deployment of soldiers to forest reserves recently cleared of illegal mining activities, known as galamsey, to prevent miners from returning.
According to Ghana Web, the President explained that in the past, illegal miners, often heavily armed, would return to these areas after military operations ended, continuing to damage the environment. To address this, the newly stationed soldiers will remain in the affected forest reserves to ensure the areas remain protected.
President Mahama made these remarks during a meeting with chiefs from the Western North Region where he detailed the government's intensified efforts against galamsey. He noted that nine critical zones have been cleared of illegal activities, with soldiers now present to maintain security and prevent a resurgence of mining operations.
The President also highlighted the challenges faced by forest guards, who have previously been attacked by armed illegal miners, resulting in casualties. To enhance the fight against illegal mining, he urged traditional leaders to work with the government and support the National Inter-Ministerial Coordinating Committee on Illegal Mining (NAIMOS) in their communities.
In related efforts, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has reportedly allocated GHS400 million in the 2027 Budget to recruit more Blue Water Guards. These guards are tasked with patrolling water bodies, combating illegal mining, and destroying changfang machines used in such activities.