• Metascholar News Portal
• Innovation , News
• January 30, 2025
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• 3 minutes Read

Illegal Mining in Water Bodies: EPA Ag. CEO Warns That No One, Including Politicians, Will Be Spared

Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), has firmly stated that her organization will take decisive action, including the arrest and prosecution of individuals involved in illegal mining activities in and around water bodies. In an exclusive interview with Onuaonline’s Akua Sarpomaa on January 29, 2025, at her office, Professor Nana Klutse firmly stated that mining activities around water bodies in Ghana cannot and will not be allowed. She emphasized the urgent need to curb the rising trend of illegal mining, particularly within and around the country’s water resources. “We are extremely concerned about the alarming increase in mining activities near water bodies across the nation. As an Authority, it is our responsibility to enforce the law and ensure that these illegal practices are eradicated,” she asserted. Professor Klutse highlighted the importance of adhering to Ghana’s environmental laws, which require all mining operations to obtain the necessary permits before commencing activities. She further stressed the need for sustainable mining practices that minimize the environmental impact, ensuring that natural resources are preserved for future generations. “All mining activities must strictly comply with the environmental laws of Ghana, including obtaining the required permits and implementing sustainable mining methods that mitigate environmental damage,” she added. The issue of illegal mining, commonly known as ‘galamsey,’ has been a longstanding problem in Ghana, significantly affecting water quality and the overall ecosystem. Professor Klutse made it clear that her office is committed to enforcing the law, regardless of who is involved. “I do not know of any so-called ‘big man’ or politician engaging in such illegal activities, but let me be clear no one is above the law in this country. If we discover any high-profile individual involved in illegal mining, we will ensure that they face the full force of the law,” she stated firmly. Professor Klutse also called for collective efforts from all Ghanaians, including the media, to help combat illegal mining. She encouraged citizens to report any ongoing illegal mining operations to the relevant authorities, emphasizing that public vigilance is crucial in addressing the menace. “I am pleading with all Ghanaians and the media if you know of any illegal mining sites that are still operational, please inform the authorities or contact our dedicated hotlines at 0506699466 or 0506694760,” she urged. Illegal mining continues to pose a severe threat to Ghana’s environment, particularly its water bodies, which serve as a vital resource for…