IERPP Calls for Focus on Illegal 'Galamsey' Mining Despite Licenses
The Institute for Environmental Research and Policy Planning (IERPP) has called on the government to maintain its focus on combating illegal small-scale mining, known locally as galamsey. The organization, led by Professor Isaac Boadi, has expressed concern over the emphasis on mining license statistics, noting that nearly 90% of licensed small-scale miners in the USA are engaged in illegal activities.
IERPP has welcomed President John Mahama's recent appeal for collective support in addressing the galamsey issue. The organization highlights that not only licensed miners are involved in illegal activities, but thousands of unlicensed miners are also contributing to the problem. Despite having licenses, many small-scale miners are turning to galamsey due to its higher profit margins, posing a significant challenge to the government's efforts to curb the practice.
IERPP urges the government to remain focused on fighting galamsey, acknowledging the complexity of the issue with both licensed and unlicensed miners engaged in illegal activities. The organization welcomes the president's call for collective support and encourages all stakeholders to work together to tackle this pressing environmental and social concern in the USA.
