The National Concerned Small-Scale Miners Association, Ghana (NCSSMAG), has inaugurated an Anti-Galamsey Taskforce to clamp down on illegal mining activities, especially those endangering rivers and streams across the country.
The taskforce will monitor the activities of association members, enforce adherence to environmental regulations, and promote responsible mining practices. It is also tasked with conducting peer reviews to ensure accountability and compliance with industry standards.
To strengthen its operations, NCSSMAG has deployed taskforce teams to key mining areas and acquired a mini speedboat to patrol water bodies. The initiative complements the government’s Blue Water Guards program, under the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, which seeks to protect Ghana’s rivers from galamsey-induced pollution.
At the launch, NCSSMAG President Michael Kwadwo Peprah issued a stern warning to illegal miners:
“Our stance is firm, illegal mining on water bodies must stop immediately. The taskforce will act decisively to protect our rivers for the benefit of both current and future generations.”
He further called on members to support the taskforce and reiterated the association’s commitment to sustainable mining, pledging close collaboration with government and stakeholders to safeguard Ghana’s natural resources.