The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has urged the government to repeal L.I. 2462, which allows mining in forest reserves, and to declare a state of emergency in targeted areas to accelerate the fight against illegal mining.
He touted the media’s singular role in tackling the menace, stating categorically that no institution has been as consistent in the ‘galamsey’ fight as the Ghanaian media, highlighting progressive measures like instituting a targeted award category for journalists.
“There’s no institution, I dare say, that has stayed the fight against galamsey more than the media. The GJA has instituted an award category on the subject matter for many years now to encourage our rank and file to keep the cameras, microphones, and pens focused on the massive destruction of our land, water bodies, and lives caused by galamsey.” He said.
His call comes amid a mixed public reaction towards the review of L.I. 2462, which is currently before Parliament, a move contrary to previous definitive calls and pledges by the government to repeal the legislation ahead of the 2024 elections.
Dr. Dwumfour lauded the efforts of the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Buah, in combating the menace but was emphatic in his demand for a state of emergency and the repeal of L.I. 2462, actions he described as essential for meaningful progress.
“We wish to commend all our comrades working hard in the fields for Mother Ghana, even at the peril of their lives. Colleagues, we have observed some positive steps by the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources towards dealing with the galamsey problem. At this point, we commend the Minister for his show of commitment to the fight.”
“We however believe more must be done to ensure greater success,beginning with the repeal of the law that allows mining in forest reserves and the declaration of a state of emergency in targeted areas to enable a frontal attack on galamsey,” he said.
He further demanded that the Minister ensure the protection of journalists on mining sites and facilitate their work without hindrance, fear, or threats to their lives.
Additionally, he called on the Minister to collaborate with the GJA and the media to develop more impactful strategies in the fight against illegal mining.