Fight Against Galamsey Worse Under Current NDC Administration-Oduro Amaning.

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Communications Officer, Mr. Oduro Amaning, has alleged that the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, has worsened under the current National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration.

Speaking on Radio1 100.7 FM’s morning show, Oman Mu Nsem, Mr. Oduro Amaning expressed concern about the government’s ability to effectively deal with the illegal mining menace.

According to him, the fight against galamsey has become increasingly difficult, raising concerns about whether the establishment of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) is helping or complicating efforts to combat illegal mining.
Mr. Oduro Amaning questioned whether GoldBod purchases gold originating from illegal mining activities, arguing that the issue must be properly addressed to ensure that the fight against galamsey remains credible.

He further maintained that the previous NPP administration under former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo performed better in the fight against illegal mining compared to the current NDC government.

However, GoldBod has previously rejected allegations that it purchases illegally mined gold. The Board has stated that it operates through licensed aggregators and that its licensing conditions prohibit the purchase of gold from illegal sources. GoldBod has also said its mandate includes promoting responsible sourcing, traceability and environmentally sustainable mining practices.

The comments by Mr. Oduro Amaning are likely to further fuel the ongoing national debate over the effectiveness of Ghana’s fight against illegal mining and the role of institutions responsible for regulating the country’s gold sector.
The question remains: Has the fight against galamsey improved or worsened under the current administration?

By: Paulina Armah/ Radio1.