Paa Kwesi Schandorf, the Media Relations Officer for the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combating illegal mining—commonly known as galamsey—despite the increasing complexity of the struggle.
He clarified that the government’s stance is not against mining itself, but specifically against unlicensed and irresponsible mining, which poses a direct threat to the environment, human life, food security, and national stability.
Paa Kwesi Schandorf highlighted that the involvement of high-profile individuals has significantly hindered progress.
He noted that the fight is complicated by the interference of influential figures, including religious leaders, traditional authorities, and politically exposed persons.
“This government is not against mining but against irresponsible mining. If you want to mine, do it responsibly. The fight against illegal mining is not easy; it is extremely difficult. NAIMOS will arrest and seize excavators, and you will have people making calls and appealing on behalf of others. Politically exposed persons from across all political parties are involved. Sometimes it is not only the politicians; pastors, chiefs, opinion leaders, and DCEs are all involved, and it makes the work extremely difficult.”
Speaking in an interview on Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, Schandorf commended the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) for their dedication. He revealed that despite numerous attempts to compromise the secretariat’s integrity through bribery and pressure, the team has remained resilient.
He gave special recognition to Colonel Dominic Buah, praising his credibility and firm leadership in the face of constant external pressure.
According to Schandorf, the NAIMOS headquarters is frequently visited by individuals seeking to influence operations or offer bribes, all of which have been resisted.
While acknowledging that NAIMOS currently faces logistical challenges, he assured the public that the government is working to provide more resources to enhance their operations and increase personnel compensation.
“We have all agreed to deal with galamsey, and so it is our collective responsibility to deal with this canker. We cannot stop mining, but we have to do it right. We have to mine and make good use of it. I don’t know why people don’t want to do it the right way. This makes the work of NAIMOS difficult because when you go to their headquarters, the number of appeals and propositions are uncountable. Sometimes people come there to make appeals, but Colonel Dominic Buah has stood his ground and resisted all these things.”
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
