Chiefs can help stop galamsey where government enforcement struggles – KNUST Professor
Dean of the Faculty of Renewable Natural Resources at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Professor Emmanuel Acheampong, has called for greater involvement of traditional leaders in the fight against illegal mining, locally known as galamsey.
Professor Emmanuel Acheampong, Dean of the Faculty of Renewable Natural Resources at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), has urged traditional leaders to play a more significant role in combating illegal mining, also known as galamsey. He believes that the government's efforts to curb the problem have been insufficient and that local authorities could contribute greatly to protecting the environment.
Speaking at the AIM4Forest program organized by the Food and Agriculture Organisation, Prof Acheampong highlighted that chiefs are the most accessible authorities in communities where illegal mining is rampant. He stressed that engaging these leaders can help influence residents' behavior and deter illegal mining activities. "Government alone will not be able to sustain this," Prof Acheampong stated.
He mentioned that some traditional leaders have already been actively involved in resisting galamsey in certain Ashanti and Bono region communities. By collaborating with chiefs, he argued, communities can address misconceptions about illegal mining being the sole means of livelihood. Prof Acheampong also emphasized the importance of educating people about the detrimental effects of illegal mining on forests, water bodies, and future generations.
"When chiefs and community members realize that destructive actions can harm their descendants' environment, they can become strong allies in preserving these resources," he concluded.
Written by urgent.news from MyJoyOnline Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
