Chiefs Key to Ending Galamsey – National House of Chiefs President
The President of the National House of Chiefs, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, has made a passionate appeal to the government to integrate traditional authorities into the fight against illegal mining, also known as galamsey. He warned that the escalating galamsey situation is rapidly becoming a threat to Ghana’s national security.
Speaking at the General Meeting of the National House of Chiefs in Kumasi, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II pointed to troubling patterns observed in other West African nations and South America, where unchecked illegal mining has evolved into sophisticated, armed operations. He emphasized the need for Ghana to proactively prevent such a scenario from unfolding.
The Chief’s call comes as resistance to government law-enforcement efforts from some galamsey operators continues to surface, further underscoring the vital role chiefs – as custodians of stool lands – must play in addressing the issue. “Traditional leaders are best positioned to safeguard our water bodies, farmlands, and the general health of our people,” he stressed, urging full participation in the development of anti-galamsey strategies.
Beyond illegal mining, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II also advocated for an urgent review of the current mining and timber royalty distribution system. He described the allocations presently received by traditional authorities as wholly insufficient.
To address this, he proposed that one percent of the gross revenue generated by mining companies operating in traditional areas be directly allocated to support local development initiatives. “It is a paradox that communities rich in natural resources continue to grapple with inadequate infrastructure – poor roads, schools, and healthcare facilities,” he lamented.
He urged swift government action to rectify this imbalance, highlighting the detrimental effect of underdeveloped resource-rich areas. The President of the National House of Chiefs also took the opportunity to remind motorists to exercise caution during the upcoming Christmas season, emphasizing strict adherence to traffic regulations, and in particular, avoiding speeding to minimize road accidents.
Image Source: MYJOYONLINE
