The National Concerned Association of Small-Scale Miners (NCASSM) has called on the government to investigate the utilization of over $200 million allocated between 2017 and 2024 to combat illegal mining (galamsey).

The association alleges mismanagement of resources meant for interventions to curb the environmental and social effects of galamsey.

Allegations of Mismanagement

In a press statement issued by its president, Michael Kwadwo Peprah, NCASSM raised concerns about the misuse of funds and equipment acquired under the anti-galamsey campaign. Specific concerns included:

1. Procurement of Pickups and Drones:

Funds were used to purchase branded pickup trucks for "Operation Galam Stop" and over $2 million was spent on drones for surveillance. However, many drones are reportedly missing.

2. GalamStop Application:

Approximately $1 million was invested in developing a technology platform to streamline licensing and monitoring of small-scale mining. The application, however, failed to deliver on its intended purpose.

3. GPS Tracking Devices:

Resources were allocated for GPS tracking devices to monitor excavators, but the effectiveness of these devices remains questionable.

4. Training of Drone Pilots:

Taxpayer money was spent on training drone pilots, yet the initiative has not had a significant impact on illegal mining activities.
The association also highlighted allegations that some confiscated mining equipment, including excavators, were misappropriated, sold, or destroyed without proper accountability.

Calls for Action

NCASSM has outlined specific steps it believes the government should take to address these issues:

1. Independent Investigation:

Establish a neutral committee to audit the $200 million allocated for the campaign and examine the procurement and deployment of resources such as drones, trucks, and GPS devices.

2. Audit of Confiscated Equipment:

Investigate reports of mismanagement of seized mining equipment and hold accountable those responsible for their sale or destruction.

2. Accountability for Failed Projects:

Provide a full report on failed initiatives, including the GalamStop application, and determine who benefited from them and why they were not properly implemented.

4. Prosecution of Offenders:

Prosecute individuals or groups found to have misused public funds or diverted resources intended for the fight against galamsey.

A Path Forward

The association emphasized that the fight against galamsey will only succeed if public resources are used transparently and effectively. They urged the government to work with stakeholders in the small-scale mining industry to develop sustainable solutions and implement rigorous monitoring of anti-galamsey initiatives.

"We, the National Concerned Association of Small-Scale Miners, pledge our support to the government in its efforts to combat illegal mining," the statement said. "However, this support must be matched by transparency, accountability, and good governance."

The association concluded by calling on all Ghanaians to demand accountability in order to safeguard the future of small-scale mining and protect the country’s natural resources.