If won in the 2024 elections, Ghana’s National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, has promised to address the problem of illegal mining, or galamsey. At the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) in Sunyani, during the Third Annual Transformational Dialogue on Small-scale Mining, he presented his intentions.
Challenge of Illegal Mining
In Ghana, illegal mining has been a significant environmental and social problem, especially for small-scale enterprises. Deforestation, water contamination, and disputes with nearby people are the results of it.
Mahama’s Pledge
As the honour’s honoured guest, Mahama promised to take on illicit mining head-on if he wins the 2024 election. He underlined the necessity of an all-encompassing strategy that deals with the problem’s underlying causes.
Utilizing modern technology
Using artificial intelligence (AI) and other contemporary technology to stop illicit mining is one of Mahama’s main strategies. He thinks AI will make it easier to keep an eye on mining operations and identify illicit ones.
Collaboration and regulation
Mahama emphasized the value of cooperation between local people, mining firms, and governmental organizations in addition. To stop illicit mining operations, he also emphasized the necessity of stricter laws and regulations.
Conclusion
The urgency of addressing illegal mining in Ghana is shown by Mahama’s commitment to using AI and other tools to combat the practice. Should he be elected, his policies might represent a major advancement in the nation’s attempts to save the environment and encourage environmentally friendly mining methods.
