The National Concerned Small-Scale Miners Association has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) in the ongoing battle against illegal mining, particularly along major water bodies in the Ashanti Region.

According to the association, its dedicated task force has already chalked significant success in reducing illicit mining along the Offin upper stream, an area long plagued by unauthorised mining activities.

For weeks, members of the task force have been engaging communities situated along the Offin River, where illegal miners have severely degraded the waterway.

Addressing journalists on Thursday, December 11, the President of the Association, Michael Kwadwo Peprah, said the group’s interventions are meant to reinforce government efforts in combating the galamsey menace. He lauded the government for allocating funds to NAIMOS but stressed the need for stronger community engagement.

“NAIMOS alone cannot fight galamsey. What is needed is more sensitisation. This will help safeguard various water bodies, lands, and water reserves from destruction,” he said.

Mr Peprah urged all stakeholders, especially residents, to support ongoing operations to ensure that gains made in protecting natural resources are sustained.