Declare galamsey hotspots as security Zones – Collins Adomako

The Member of Parliament for Afigya Kwabre North, Collins Adomako Mensah, has called on the Mahama-led administration to designate illegal mining (galamsey) hotspots as security zones.

He believes this approach will strengthen efforts to curb the destructive practice more effectively.

Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV on Saturday which was closely followed by Today.com.gh on October 11, Mr. Adomako Mensah said that declaring specific galamsey-prone areas as restricted security zones would be more impactful than imposing a nationwide state of emergency.

“For me, my point is that certain areas must be declared as major security zones. People should be barred from going into those areas. It’s as simple as that,” he said. “The data is there; we all know where the mining and galamsey are ongoing.”

He further stressed that the country’s security agencies already have enough intelligence to identify these locations and act swiftly to prevent further environmental destruction. “I’m sure the National Security is aware of it. Simply stop everybody from going into those particular areas as quickly as possible; otherwise, we will be back with this same discussion. We need to double up,” he emphasised.

The MP also urged government officials, communicators, and political actors to avoid engaging in self-praise or partisan blame games when discussing solutions to the galamsey crisis. He said such approaches only distract from the real task of protecting Ghana’s natural resources and ensuring sustainable development.

Instead, Mr. Adomako Mensah called for a coordinated national response that prioritises enforcement, community engagement, and rehabilitation of degraded lands. He maintained that the fight against galamsey should not be politicised but treated as a matter of national survival.

“The destruction caused by illegal mining affects everyone, regardless of political colour,” he noted. “We must all rise above partisanship and act decisively to save our water bodies, forests, and farmlands.”

His comments come amid renewed national debate on the growing threat of illegal mining and its devastating impact on the environment and local communities.