Former Member of Parliament for Kumbungu, Ras Mubarak, believes that the eight gallant men who lost their lives in the recent helicopter crash must be a wake-up call to intensify the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
He suggested stronger measures be implemented to combat the menace in honour of the deceased, whose deaths occurred in the line of duty en route to launch a policy to crack down on the practice.
In a Facebook post, Mr. Mubarak lamented that galamsey has polluted 60% of Ghana’s water bodies, destroyed vast forest lands, and endangered lives through mercury poisoning and pit collapses.
While acknowledging the progress made by some interventions, such as Operation Halt’s military crackdowns and the Multilateral Mining Integrated Project’s push for sustainable mining, he noted that they still face major challenges, including corruption and economic dependence on the illegal trade.
He cited past government efforts, including the 2018–2019 ban on small-scale mining and mercury-free initiatives under the Minamata Convention, as signs of commitment, but stressed that enforcement has been inconsistent and land reclamation efforts remain far behind the scale of destruction.
The businessman emphasisied his campaign and shared that mourning of these victims should not be in vain amid the galamsey fight that has become a national canker.
“The loss of these eight lives must not be in vain. Their sacrifice demands stronger action against galamsey,” Mr. Mubarak stated.
He further called on citizens to advocate for clean rivers and forests, ensuring the legacy of the fallen heroes drives meaningful change.
“We mourn the loss of our compatriots who gave their lives in the fight against galamsey. May God rest their souls, and may their deaths inspire a renewed commitment to protect Ghana’s environment.”
He urged the government to bolster Operation Halt with advanced monitoring technology such as drones, involve local communities in restoration programs, and expand alternative livelihood schemes to reduce reliance on illegal mining.
