Penplusbytes, through its Climate Change & Well-being thematic area, has consistently demonstrated its commitment to the fight against galamsey. Through advocacy campaigns, technology-driven solutions, research, and training programs for journalists, Penplusbytes has been at the forefront of promoting sustainable environmental practices.
At the same time, we still recognize the devastating impact of illegal mining on our environment, including the pollution of water bodies, the destruction of green vegetation and arable land, and numerous health and economic challenges.
In light of this, we welcome the new directive issued by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) calling for an immediate halt to all mining activities in and around the country’s water bodies. The directive further states that “the EPA, in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MESTI), the Minerals Commission, the Water Resources Commission, and relevant security agencies, will: seize equipment used in illegal mining operations in line with applicable laws, intensify surveillance and inspections of mining sites, and prosecute individuals and organizations found violating environmental laws.”
While we commend the EPA for taking this bold step, we urge that this directive must not become another white elephant, as has been the case with past initiatives.
To complement this new directive, Penplusbytes calls for:
- Tech-Driven Monitoring Mechanisms – In addition to existing enforcement measures, the government should integrate technology-based solutions such as satellite imagery, drone surveillance, and community-driven digital reporting initiatives to track illegal mining activities in real time. These innovations will enhance transparency, accountability, and rapid response to the ‘galamsey’ menace.
- Strengthening Community Involvement and Education – Community awareness programs and campaigns, such as workshops, town hall meetings, and the distribution of informational materials in local languages, must be implemented. This will enable community members to appreciate the long-term environmental and health impacts of illegal mining.
- Economic Alternatives for Miners – The government must create and support alternative livelihood programs for individuals involved in illegal mining. This could include training in sustainable agriculture, eco-tourism, or other income-generating activities that do not harm the environment.
As an organization, we remain committed to supporting efforts that promote environmental sustainability. Penplusbytes therefore call on all Ghanaians to rally behind the EPA and other stakeholders in protecting our water bodies, as access to clean water is not just an environmental issue but a fundamental human right.
About Penplusbytes
Penplusbytes is a not-for-profit organization driving change through innovations in the following key areas: using new digital technologies to enable good governance and accountability, new media and innovations, climate and well-being, and enhancing oversight for effective utilisation of mining, oil and gas revenue and resources.