President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has ramped up stakeholder engagement to address issues related to illegal small-scale mining, commonly known as ‘galamsey.’

The objective was to find sustainable solutions to the problem, which has severely impacted Ghana’s ecology and biodiversity over the years.

As part of his efforts to implement protective measures for the environment, the President held a meeting with organised labour at Jubilee House in Accra on Thursday.

A statement from the Ministry of Information following the meeting expressed gratitude to organised labour for responding to the President’s invitation.

It noted, “The government is committed to engaging all stakeholders in the pursuit of sustainable mining and environmental protection.”

On Tuesday, labour unions announced a nationwide strike set to begin on October 10 to voice their dissatisfaction with what they perceive as the government’s inadequate response to illegal small-scale mining.

Galamsey remains a significant threat to Ghana’s forest and water resources.

About 34 major forest reserves in the country have been severely impacted by illegal small-scale mining, leading to the loss or degradation of around 4,726.2 hectares of forest.

The Forestry Commission has identified Apamprama, Subin Shelterbelt, and Oda River Forest in the Ashanti Region as some of the most affected reserves.