The Media Relations Officer for the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has said that while the operations of NAIMOS have been commendable, they are still hampered by political interference and logical constraints.
He credited the government with providing significant logistical and financial support but admitted there is more to be done.
Moving forward, he emphasised that the Ministry will continue to pursue the establishment of permanent bases across the country to ensure a constant and effective presence in the fight against illegal mining.
He made this revelation during an interview on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM’s Frontline programme hosted by Kwabena Agyapong.
He further stated that the proposal to set up permanent military bases has not been abandoned, with the government diligently working towards its realisation.
He informed the host that despite acknowledging the immense pressure and unwarranted interference NAIMOS faces from various quarters, the organisation has shown commitment to combating galamsey.
The ruling government, led by President John Dramani Mahama, is pulling out all stops to fight this menace, he explained.
Paa Kwesi Schandorf stressed that NAIMOS and its members are highly motivated to fight against galamsey and that no form of influence or interference can compromise them.
However, he noted that without adequate motivation and compensation, they could be susceptible to compromise, and efforts are underway to increase their compensation package.
He described the fight against galamsey as a high-risk endeavour, underscoring the need for fair remuneration.
Paa Kwesi Schandorf stated that this is one reason why the permanent deployment of personnel across the country has been challenging. He stressed that the fight against galamsey is extremely difficult, and NAIMOS members are risking their lives to serve the country, warranting good compensation.
While declining to disclose the compensation amount, he assured that plans are in place to increase it, emphasising the importance of motivating personnel to prevent compromise.
“NAIMOS operations are proceeding well, but political interference is the main issue. Aside from the political interference, the government has provided some logistical support, but more is needed. We have 16 regions, and illegal mining is rampant in Ashanti, Eastern, Western, Central, parts of the Northern region, and Western North. NAIMOS aims to maintain a permanent presence in these regions with 24/7 soldier deployments. The plan is on paper, and funding is the only thing holding us back. The President has shown commitment to executing this plan, although it comes at a significant cost.”
He assured that plans are underway to implement this strategy, with partial deployments already happening in specific locations.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
