The National Youth for Peace is urging the general public to hold Traditional Authorities (Nananom) accountable for the widespread menace of illegal mining—popularly known as galamsey—in our communities.

As custodians of our lands and natural resources, Nananom have a sacred duty to protect these assets for both present and future generations. Unfortunately, many have failed in this responsibility, allowing greedy individuals to exploit and destroy the environment for personal gain.

While some have suggested that the government declare a state of emergency to curb illegal mining, we strongly disagree. For decades, mining has been the main source of livelihood for many communities. Declaring a state of emergency without providing alternative means of survival would only deepen poverty and hardship among affected populations.

Proposed Solutions to Address Illegal Mining

To tackle galamsey and restore our environment, we propose the following practical and sustainable measures:

Registration of All Miners. The government should register every miner within their respective communities to ensure accountability and proper regulation.

Reclamation Through National Afforestation: Recruit illegal miners into the National Afforestation Program, enabling them to reclaim and restore the lands they have damaged.

Privatisation of Affected Rivers Rivers destroyed by mining should be privatised and leased to individuals or companies interested in fish farming and other eco-friendly businesses.

Strict Punishment for Offenders: Anyone found engaging in illegal mining after these measures are implemented should face the full force of the law and be prosecuted without delay.

Illegal mining has devastated our farmlands, poisoned our rivers, and endangered the health of millions—all for short-term gain. The future of our environment is at stake.

We call on Nananom to rise up and fulfil their duty as custodians of our lands. Together, we can protect our natural heritage, secure sustainable livelihoods, and ensure a better future for generations yet unborn.