The Australia High Commissioner to Ghana who superintends over nine West African countries, has described as "stealing" activities of illegal gold mining in the country Ghana.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Fred Duhoe of Joy Business, Gregory Andrews indicated that illegal mining is not only stealing but harmful to the environment and must be curbed with all efforts."Illegal mining is stealing.

It is stealing from the people of Ghana and it is also really bad for the environment". He further added that illegal gold mining isn't subject to strict environmental and community standards, hence posing serious issues for livelihoods.

The High Commissioner said he will in the coming days meet with the Minister of land and Natural Resources to foster strategies that will deploy best practices and legitimate mining.

"Australian mining companies are some of the most reputable companies in the world with some best expertise, and we intend to support Ghana with strong legitimate mining, as at the same time support the government of Ghana deal with illegal mining".

Barely two months in office, the enthusiastic High Commissioner said he is passionate about the environment and its preservation, hence he will embark on a visit to some beautiful places in the country. 

Illegal mining has been the bane of Ghana's quest to attain the Sustainable Development Goals 6, 11, 13 and 15. These goals aim at preserving nature and the environment for conducive living of all humans and creatures.

Successive governments have been unsuccessful at dealing with the illegal mining menace, popularly known as "galamsey" but the Australia High Commissioner said he is optimistic about Ghana's economy with some timely interventions.