Fatimatu Abubakar, Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, has refuted claims that the security taskforce tackling illegal mining (galamsey) was instructed to burn seized excavators.
*Background*
The government's efforts to combat galamsey have been ongoing, with the establishment of Operation Halt to protect water bodies and forests from destruction. The taskforce has been seizing equipment, including excavators, from illegal mining sites.
*Deputy Minister's Statement*
According to Fatimatu Abubakar, the taskforce's mandate was to seize and remove equipment, not destroy it. She emphasized that burning excavators was not an authorized method of disposal.
*Reasons for Seizure*
The Deputy Minister explained that seized equipment would be:
1. *Auctioned*: To generate revenue for the state.
2. *Repurposed*: For use in other sectors, such as agriculture or construction.
3. *Stored*: As evidence for prosecution.
*Taskforce's New Directive*
In light of recent controversy, the taskforce has been instructed to:
1. *Document*: Seized equipment thoroughly.
2. *Secure*: Store equipment in designated facilities.
3. *Prosecute*: Ensure perpetrators face justice.
*Environmental Impact*
Galamsey's devastating effects on Ghana's environment have sparked widespread concern. The government's efforts aim to protect:
1. *Water sources*: Preserve rivers and streams from pollution.
2. *Forests*: Safeguard reserves from deforestation.
3. *Land*: Prevent degradation and promote sustainable use.
*Stakeholder Engagement*
Fatimatu Abubakar assured that the government would engage with stakeholders, including:
1. *Traditional leaders*
2. *Mining communities*
3. *Civil society organizations*
to find lasting solutions to the galamsey menace.
*Conclusion*
The clarification on excavator destruction policy highlights the government's commitment to transparency and responsible management of seized assets. As the fight against galamsey continues, Ghana seeks to balance economic development with environmental sustainability.
*Environmental Impact*
Galamsey's devastating effects on Ghana's environment have sparked widespread concern. The government's efforts aim to protect:
1. *Water sources*: Preserve rivers and streams from pollution.
2. *Forests*: Safeguard reserves from deforestation.
3. *Land*: Prevent degradation and promote sustainable use.
*Stakeholder Engagement*
Fatimatu Abubakar assured that the government would engage with stakeholders, including:
1. *Traditional leaders*
2. *Mining communities*
3. *Civil society organizations*
to find lasting solutions to the galamsey menace.
*Conclusion*
The clarification on excavator destruction policy highlights the government's commitment to transparency and responsible management of seized assets. As the fight against galamsey continues, Ghana seeks to balance economic development with environmental sustainability.
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