Takoradi MP and former Western Regional Minister, Kwabena Okyere-Darko Mensah, has called on the government to install solar-powered CCTV cameras along water bodies to intensify the fight against illegal mining (galamsey).

His suggestion comes against the backdrop of alarming revelations by the Lands Minister, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, who recently painted a disturbing picture of the nation’s ongoing struggle against galamsey.

According to the Minister, illegal miners have taken over nine forest reserves, completely blocking access to the Forestry Commission and exacerbating the destruction of natural resources.

#NoToGalamsey: Former Western Regional Minister and Takoradi MP, Kwabena Okyere-Mensah, is calling on the government to install CCTV cameras along water bodies to help combat illegal mining. pic.twitter.com/nkScSw40HZ

— JoyNews (@JoyNewsOnTV) February 19, 2025

In response to these concerns, Mr Okyere-Darko Mensah stressed the need for modern technology to aid law enforcement in monitoring and preventing illegal mining activities.

"Now that we have digitalization, it is important to implement and invest in solar-powered CCTV cameras along the rivers," he said on the floor of Parliament on Wednesday, February 19.

The MP argued that solar-powered surveillance would provide 24/7 monitoring, especially in remote areas lacking electricity, and could capture illegal mining activities that often occur under the cover of darkness.

Reflecting on past challenges, he criticised the current approach of deploying security forces from Accra, noting that such interventions often fall short.

"By the time soldiers even move into the districts, the miners have already been informed and fled. During my time, when we conducted morning operations, the illegal miners would be gone, only to return at night to continue their activities. It has been very difficult for our agencies to stop them permanently," he explained.

He also stressed the importance of community involvement in the fight against galamsey, calling for local committees to have a stronger role in issuing mining licenses.

"If we don’t involve the communities directly, there won’t be any sense of ownership. The fight against galamsey has always been driven from Accra, but the districts and communities must take charge. Without this, it will continue to be a losing battle," the Takoradi MP added.

Addressing the issue of river guards previously deployed to protect water bodies, the MP acknowledged that corruption within their ranks had undermined the initiative.

"We trained a lot of river guards, but over time, issues of morality and corruption surfaced. Some of those meant to protect the rivers ended up colluding with illegal miners. That’s why we now need to rely on digital tools like CCTV cameras that can’t be bribed," he noted.