Field Operations Director of the United Party, Hopeson Adorye, has called for a temporary halt on all small-scale mining activities as part of efforts to combat illegal mining, also known as galamsey.

According to him, suspending such operations for at least one year could serve as a decisive step in restoring degraded lands and polluted water bodies across the country.

Speaking on the JoyNews’ AM Show on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, he expressed his appreciation towards the work of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat, (NAIMOS) noting that more advanced measures could be enforced to deal with the problem.

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Adorye referenced a proposal by former trade minister Alan Kyerematen, which advocates a complete but temporary suspension of small-scale mining, while allowing large-scale firms such as Gold Fields to continue operating.

“No matter what, apart from the giants… all other mining should be suspended for one complete year,” he stated.

He further explained that under the proposal, affected miners would not be left idle but rather engaged in land reclamation projects, with government providing daily wages comparable to what they earn from mining.

“Government says, ‘Okay, I’m going to pay you that money. Don’t go and dig. Let us plant trees,” he said.

Adorye further indicated that such an approach would help reverse environmental damage caused by illegal mining.

“By that time, you reclaim the land. I mean, the water bodies too would have been restored. The dead water bodies will resurrect,” he added.

He also noted that after the one-year suspension, the sector could be reopened under tighter regulations, including proper licensing, vetting and training of miners to ensure compliance with environmental standards.

His comments follow the ongoing national discussion on how best fight galamsey, which continues to serve as a serious threat to Ghana’s natural resources and livelihoods.

SO/VPO

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