The Minister for Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, has reaffirmed the government’s firm stance against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, by declaring that the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) have been fully empowered to deal with the menace. His statement comes in the wake of a significant military operation in the Western Region, where security forces uncovered and dismantled a hidden illegal mining settlement housing over 10,000 individuals.

In a post shared on Facebook on Wednesday, April 16, Dr Boamah emphasized that the government is moving away from mere rhetoric and is now focused on visible and measurable action. “We’ll talk less and let action and outcomes guide us,” he stated, highlighting a shift towards practical enforcement over public declarations.

The Defence Minister issued a heartfelt plea to individuals engaged in illegal mining, especially those operating in forest reserves and near water bodies. Appealing to both their conscience and patriotism, he said, “In the name of God and Ghana, leave the forest reserves and water bodies. Save your lives. Save the environment.” His message emphasized the environmental destruction and long-term risks posed by galamsey to both human health and the nation’s natural resources.

Dr Boamah assured the public that the military now has both the authority and political support needed to effectively carry out its operations. “The Ghana Armed Forces has been empowered. We have the needed political will,” he declared, signaling a new era of decisive action against illegal mining activities.

The Minister’s comments reflect a renewed urgency in addressing the galamsey crisis, which has caused extensive environmental degradation across various regions in Ghana. Forest reserves, rivers, and farmlands have all suffered significant damage as a result of uncontrolled mining practices, prompting strong public demand for government intervention.

The government’s recent military-led actions are part of broader efforts to restore Ghana’s environment and safeguard natural resources for future generations. The Western Region operation, which targeted a massive and previously undetected illegal mining hub, serves as a major milestone in this campaign.

Dr Boamah’s statement also underscores a growing consensus within the government that the fight against galamsey must go beyond speeches and promises, focusing instead on real enforcement and sustained action. His firm stance reflects the administration’s commitment to environmental protection and rule of law.

The Defence Minister’s assurance of political backing for the GAF marks a critical step in addressing one of the country’s most pressing environmental and social challenges.