NAIMOS cites interference from chiefs and politicians as major hurdle in anti-galamsey fight
The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has expressed worry over what it says is ongoing interference from influential figures—especially traditional rulers and political actors—which continues to hinder Ghana’s efforts to clamp down on illegal mining.
Speaking at a stakeholder meeting in Sekondi on Sunday, December 7, the Deputy Director of Operations at NAIMOS, Lieutenant Colonel Joshua Satekla, explained that although the secretariat is determined to sustain the fight against galamsey, external pressure from powerful individuals remains one of the major challenges facing the team.
Addressing 14 Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) in the Western Region, as well as two Regional Police Commanders, Lt. Col. Satekla emphasized that illegal mining hotspots require firm enforcement and the full collaboration of local authorities to maintain effective “no-go” zones.
He highlighted that the success of current anti-galamsey operations depends significantly on support from local stakeholders.
However, he pointed out that this support is frequently weakened.
“Every institution has challenges, and we are no exception. One of our key challenges is interference from influential people. We encounter this from politicians, chiefs, and other stakeholders in areas where we operate, and it is a big problem that must be addressed. Another critical challenge is logistics,” he said.
Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson reiterated government’s resolve to stamp out illegal mining and called on all MMDCEs to fully back President John Dramani Mahama’s efforts to end galamsey.
Source: CNR
