War against galamsey topmost priority of government – Amewu

Mr John Peter Amewu, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, says war against illegal mining remains the topmost priority of the Government and that it would ensure that the practice becomes unattractive.

“Not only will we end this trade but to make sure that it becomes unattractive for someone to venture in,” he told the Energy Media Group who called on him to present copies of their quarterly magazine to the Ministry. 
    
Activities of the unlawful mineral extraction has led to wanton destruction of farmlands and water bodies, sparking ongoing media campaign in Ghana to pressure government to end the canker.
    
Some chiefs and influential political figures were cited last week in a Bureau of National Investigations report for perpetuating the illegal trade which experts say involves over five million people.
    
“The galamsey thing we are talking about is here, it’s not a joke at all, and must be tackled with all seriousness,” Mr Amewu said. 
    
“Must we sit here and fold our arms and watch these few people to destroy our water bodies for us?
    
“No way, and we are committed to ending this menace within the shortest possible time and it is the topmost priority for this government,” he said.
     
He expressed happiness that the magazine had dedicated a column for mining related issues to champion the happenings within the sector.
     
Mr Henry Teinor, the Chief Executive Officer of Energy Media Group, told the Minister about activities of the upcoming Ghana Energy Awards which is planned for December. 
     
“We are also, by this visit, pledging our support to help you succeed,” he said. 
     
The Minister subscribed to the 60-page magazine that features a wide range of topics on energy matters in Ghana’s oil sector and around the world.

Source: GNA