NAIMOS, Amenfi West MP agree to strengthen collaboration against illegal mining

Colonel K. S. Appiah, the Director of Operations for the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), held discussions with Dr Eric Afful, the Member of Parliament for Amenfi West, on October 31, 2026. The aim of the meeting was to enhance collaboration in addressing illegal mining's environmental, security, and socio-economic impacts, particularly in the Amenfi area and the broader Western Region.

During the talks, Colonel Appiah presented an update on NAIMOS's operations in the region, particularly their recent efforts to curb illegal mining along the Ankobra River corridor and in nearby communities. He emphasized that certain areas, including rivers, forest reserves, and regions around crucial public infrastructure, are off-limits for illegal mining.

He also outlined NAIMOS's shift from temporary raids to a more persistent approach, combining clear, stabilize, monitor, and handover strategies with enhanced riverine operations in coordination with the Ghana Navy. The goal is to prevent illegal miners from returning to cleared zones after enforcement teams depart.

Colonel Appiah urged the political, traditional, and community leaders to distance themselves from interfering in illegal mining cases, whether by protecting suspects or seeking the release of seized equipment. They also discussed the detrimental effects of illegal mining, such as the destruction of agricultural lands, water bodies, and local infrastructure.

Dr Afful, the MP for Amenfi West, expressed his backing for the continuous action against illegal mining. He highlighted the necessity of establishing legitimate avenues for individuals whose income relies on mining activities. As the Chairman of Parliament’s Economy and Development Committee and a member of the Ministerial Advisory Board of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, Afful was keen to participate in broader policy dialogues concerning development and environmental conservation.

He pledged his cooperation with traditional leaders, community representatives, and local bodies to intensify public awareness and encourage the reporting of illegal mining activities to the relevant authorities.

Both parties concurred that a comprehensive resolution to illegal mining demands a combination of diligent enforcement, stricter legislation, community involvement, responsible mining practices, and ongoing public education. The NAIMOS delegation, which included Paa Kwesi Schandorf (NAIMOS Spokesperson), the area commander, a Secretariat staff member, and a Police Liaison Officer, affirmed their commitment to collaborating with Members of Parliament and other stakeholders to safeguard Ghana's rivers, forests, farmlands, and public infrastructure while supporting legitimate and responsible mining endeavors.