Former Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Inusah Fuseini, has stated that the Mahama administration has already taken significant steps to address the menace of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, August 16, the former Tamale Central MP noted that the government remains committed to ensuring that Ghana’s mineral resources are exploited responsibly and sustainably.

Mr Fuseini explained that the measures put in place by the Mahama government were aimed at protecting both the environment and the livelihoods of communities in mining areas.

He stressed that promoting responsible mining practices was central to the administration’s agenda, underscoring the need to mine natural resources without destroying the environment.

Addressing concerns about whether stronger measures may be required, Mr Fuseini indicated that a state of emergency could be declared in affected areas if the situation demanded.

“The Mahama government has taken steps to end the menace, and a state of emergency will be declared when necessary,” he said.

He added that government’s approach was to balance enforcement with the promotion of sustainable mining practices.

The comments come in the wake of the tragic helicopter crash at Adansi Akrofoum on Wednesday, August 6, which claimed the lives of eight national figures, including Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah and Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.

The incident has reignited conversations about the fight against galamsey and the broader issue of responsible mining in Ghana.