Tackle Illegality in the Forest Not Galamsey – Charles Owusu

The former Director of Operations for the Forestry Commission, Charles Owusu, has raised concerns that illegal activities other than galamsey are also contributing to the destruction of Ghana’s forest reserves.

He emphasised the need for the country to tackle these other forms of illegality in addition to galamsey.

In an interview on Nkwantannanso on May 9, he explained that various illegal activities such as unauthorised tree felling and land clearing for farming are rampant in the forest reserves, and they all contribute to the destruction of the forest.

“Such actions are illegal without the necessary licences, and it is imperative to regulate them.”

He added that there is a misconception that mining is not allowed on any land.

“Mining can be conducted on a piece of land that has been granted a licence. The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources is responsible for granting licences, not the Forestry Commission,” he said.

The practice of galamsey, or illegal small-scale mining, has become a rampant issue in Ghana. Despite being illegal, it has become a lucrative business for many people, particularly those living in rural areas where there are few other employment opportunities.

However, the environmental impact of galamsey is devastating. The unregulated digging of mines causes deforestation, and the use of heavy machinery and explosives destroys the natural landscape. Rivers and water bodies are contaminated with mercury and other toxic chemicals used to extract gold, which can have long-lasting effects on both aquatic life and human health.