The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has held a roundtable discussion with the Media Coalition for Good Governance (MCGG) to assess progress and deepen collaboration in the fight against illegal mining, widely known as galamsey.

Addressing the meeting, the Head of NAIMOS, Colonel Dominic Buah, acknowledged that the Secretariat’s operations have been challenged by a number of constraints. Despite this, he stressed that NAIMOS remains resolute in executing its mandate in line with directives from the President.

Operating under presidential authority, NAIMOS is focused on curbing illegal mining activities, particularly in galamsey-prone areas, to protect water bodies, preserve natural resources and safeguard the environment.

Colonel Buah emphasized that although the task has been demanding, the Secretariat is determined to achieve a significant reduction in illegal mining across the country.

He also addressed concerns about misinformation in the public space, including suggestions by some media practitioners that all mining activities in Ghana should be halted.

He clarified that while illegal mining must be eliminated, a complete ban on mining is neither practical nor in the national interest.

Instead, he advocated for responsible and well-regulated mining as the sustainable path forward.

Colonel Buah further called on citizens to support NAIMOS by providing credible and actionable information to assist its operations.

He urged the Media Coalition to intensify public education on the Secretariat’s mandate and procedures, noting that accurate reporting is key to tackling misinformation and building public trust.

He commended the Coalition for its continued support and encouraged it to sustain its advocacy efforts to motivate personnel and enhance operational effectiveness.

On behalf of the Media Coalition for Good Governance, its Programmes and Projects Lead, Sampson Kumah Ifeetwube Elvis, said the engagement was necessary to review data and gain deeper insight into ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining.

He underscored the importance of protecting water bodies and maintaining a healthy environment, describing both as critical to public well-being and national economic growth.

While acknowledging mining as a key contributor to Ghana’s economy, he stressed that its long-term benefits depend on responsible and regulated practices.

Kumah reaffirmed the Coalition’s commitment to working closely with NAIMOS to combat misinformation and promote accurate, fact-based reporting on illegal mining.

The Lead Convener of the Coalition, Kwadwo Baffour, also commended NAIMOS for its efforts since its commissioning by John Dramani Mahama.

He noted that the Secretariat has recorded significant successes in areas where it has conducted operations against illegal mining.

In recognition of these efforts, he said, the Coalition presented a citation to NAIMOS to honour its achievements and boost staff morale.

According to him, such recognition serves as encouragement and reinforces the importance of their work.

Baffour concluded that sustained collaboration between NAIMOS and the Media Coalition will be crucial in tackling illegal mining and promoting national development.







Dr Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe on Ghana's past, present and the road ahead