Former Lands and Natural Resources Minister, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has called for public patience as the John Mahama-led administration works to tackle illegal small-scale mining, commonly known as galamsey.
Jinapor, who previously oversaw mining regulations, acknowledged the complexity of the issue, describing it as deeply entrenched in Ghana’s socio-economic fabric.
Speaking in Parliament on Friday, March 28, 2025, he emphasized that addressing galamsey requires sustained effort and urged Ghanaians to allow the current minister time to implement new strategies, such as the recently introduced river guards initiative.
“Illegal mining is endemic, pervasive, and deeply rooted in our society. While concerns have been raised about the selection of river guards, it’s a new approach that needs time to yield results,” Jinapor stated.
Lands Minister
He, however, expressed concern over the worsening state of illegal mining, blaming it on a sense of entitlement among ruling party members who allegedly exploit forest reserves without consequences.
“Even an outsider can see the situation is deteriorating. There’s a brazen takeover of forest reserves by people who act with impunity,” he lamented.
The former Lands Minister also weighed in on calls for a state of emergency in mining hotspots, stating that the proposal is not unfounded given the severity of the crisis.
He reminded the government of its past support for such measures while in opposition and urged it to fulfill its commitments.
“The government must walk its talk. If a state of emergency is declared, careful planning is needed to define its scope and enforcement,” he cautioned.
By Osumanu Al-Hassan/thenewsbulletin24.com