Prof. Kwadwo Appiagyei-Atua

An Associate Professor at the University of Ghana School of Law, Prof Kwadwo Appiagyei-Tuah, says that while some progress has been made in the fight against illegal mining, available data still point to an alarming situation.

He cautioned against relying on government figures that have not been adequately substantiated, arguing that claims of progress must be backed by credible evidence.

Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile programme on Saturday, October 31, Prof. Appiagyei-Tuah said there was information suggesting that the government had made some gains in tackling galamsey, but questioned whether the figures being cited accurately reflected the situation on the ground.

“Definitely some progress has been made, but there are some figures that have been thrown about without evidence,” he said.

He maintained that although the government could point to some interventions and achievements, other available figures showed that illegal mining remained a serious national concern.

The law lecturer’s comments come amid renewed debate over the effectiveness of government measures to combat galamsey, including arrests, equipment seizures, river protection operations and plans to reclaim degraded lands.

President John Dramani Mahama has reported the confiscation of more than 8,200 items linked to illegal mining, including 135 excavators and nearly 200 firearms. He has also announced plans to reclaim 5,000 acres of degraded land from 2027, backed by GH¢200 million.

Prof. Appiagyei-Tuah’s assessment adds to calls for greater transparency in reporting the results of the anti-galamsey campaign, with credible data needed to establish the extent of progress and the scale of the remaining environmental threat.

Add MyJoyOnline as a preferred source on GoogleSee more of our stories when you search on Google. (opens in a new tab)

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Tags:

Galamsey: Government Claims Progress But Numbers Do Not Show It – Prof Appiagyei-Tuah

Suggested for you

More Stories

Ghana seeks Qatari investors to fund key sectors of the economy

MIIF starts big project to restore 50 hectares of forest in Sekyere Krobo

GAYO works with assemblies and schools to separate waste in Greater Accra

GAYO brings new bins to help Accra schools turn waste into money through composting and recycling

Video Shows Two Teachers Stepping on Student's Head at Techiman SHS

GES investigates two Techiman SHS teachers over alleged assault on student

Discussion