A Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, George Mireku Duker, has voiced his opposition to the deployment of military forces as the solution to the galamsey menace plaguing Ghana.

Speaking at a recent event, Mr Duker emphasised that while the military can play a role in enforcing the law, a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of illegal mining is essential for a lasting change.

The lawmaker argued that merely increasing military presence in mining areas does not tackle the underlying issues driving individuals to engage in galamsey.

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He stressed the importance of fostering alternative livelihoods and implementing sustainable practices in mining operations to prevent illegal activities from taking root.

According to him, a focus on education and community engagement is crucial in shifting perceptions about legal mining practices.

The Deputy Minister also highlighted the need for collaboration among various stakeholders, including local communities, the government, and the private sector.

He believes that a united front is necessary to create an environment where legal mining can thrive, reducing the appeal of illegal operations.

Mr Duker called for a balanced approach that prioritizes both law enforcement and community development.

He reiterated that combating galamsey requires innovative solutions that go beyond military intervention, emphasising the need for a long-term strategy that addresses the socio-economic factors contributing to illegal mining in Ghana.

“Let’s do everything possible to sack all illegal miners from our water bodies. Over the years, successive governments have tried to use the military to fight galamsey, but none of them succeeded. This shows that militarisation of the galamsey fight won’t provide a long-term solution."

“We are the ones who can solve the galamsey problem. The solution to the menace is not the deployment of the military. The solution lies in all of us showing commitment and willingness to protect our rivers and water bodies. It has been done in other countries, so we are the ones who can solve it. We can form community watchdogs to protect our water bodies,” he said.

Meanwhile, President Akufo-Addo has directed the Minister of Defence to send additional military forces to bolster "Operation Halt," the government's initiative aimed at combating illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey.

The operation will concentrate on areas adjacent to water bodies and forest reserves that have been significantly affected by illegal mining activities.

This directive comes in response to increasing pressure from Organised Labour, which had warned of a nationwide strike if the government failed to implement stronger measures against galamsey.