Using Force to Fight Illegal Mining Doesn’t Work – Anthony Aubynn
In the ongoing struggle against illegal mining in Ghana, popularly known as "galamsey," a leading voice has emphasized that relying on brute force to address the issue is counterproductive. Dr. Anthony Aubynn, a respected mining expert and former Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, has cautioned against the use of military interventions as the primary strategy to combat the menace.
Speaking at a recent forum on sustainable mining practices in Accra, Dr. Aubynn stated that the root causes of illegal mining are deeply entrenched in socioeconomic and governance issues, which require a comprehensive and collaborative approach to resolve. “The deployment of soldiers to galamsey sites may bring temporary relief, but it is not a sustainable solution,” he remarked.
Dr. Aubynn further explained that illegal mining thrives on a complex network of poverty, unemployment, and the lack of alternative livelihoods in mining communities. “We cannot win the fight against galamsey by only addressing the symptoms. We need to address the systemic issues that drive people to engage in this dangerous and illegal activity,” he said.
The Limitations of Militarization
The government’s frequent use of military personnel to clamp down on illegal mining activities has often led to accusations of human rights abuses and collateral damage. Communities have reported the destruction of legitimate businesses and the brutal treatment of locals during such operations. Despite these efforts, galamsey continues to flourish in various parts of the country, raising questions about the efficacy of the strategy.
Dr. Aubynn argued that militarization only displaces illegal miners temporarily, as they return to their activities as soon as the security forces leave. “The use of force creates tension between communities and the state, erodes trust, and pushes illegal miners to operate more covertly,” he added.
A Call for Holistic Solutions
Dr. Aubynn proposed several alternative strategies to tackle illegal mining sustainably. He called for investment in community-based development programs to provide alternative livelihoods, especially for the youth. He also emphasized the need for education and awareness campaigns about the environmental and health impacts of galamsey.
“People need to understand that the destruction of our rivers, farmlands, and forests affects us all. It’s not just about the miners; it’s about the future of Ghana,” he stressed.
Additionally, Dr. Aubynn urged the government to strengthen regulatory institutions and ensure strict enforcement of mining laws. He highlighted the importance of engaging stakeholders, including chiefs, community leaders, and small-scale miners, in finding solutions to the problem.
Collaboration Is Key
The former CEO noted that fighting illegal mining is not the sole responsibility of the government. He called on civil society organizations, religious groups, and private entities to join forces in the campaign against galamsey. “We need a united front where all hands are on deck. This is not a battle the government can win alone,” he concluded.
As the debate over how to address galamsey intensifies, Dr. Aubynn’s perspective provides a timely reminder that force alone cannot solve complex social and economic challenges. A more inclusive and sustainable approach may be the key to ending illegal mining and preserving Ghana’s natural resources for future generations.
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