Illegal mining, or ‘galamsey,’ is ravaging Ghana’s landscapes, and one military leader is calling for drastic measures to stop it. Colonel Robert Narh, the National Anti-Galamsey Army Commander and head of the Ghana Army Combat Training School, has issued a bold statement: it’s time to get tough. In a recent meeting with small-scale miners in the Upper Denkyira East Municipality, Colonel Narh told journalist Samuel Nana Tawiah that the military is ready to take decisive—and potentially controversial—action. He even suggested a “shoot and kill” approach if illegal miners violently resist efforts to shut down their operations. But here’s where it gets controversial: such extreme measures would need explicit government approval, raising questions about ethics and accountability.
Colonel Narh emphasized that progress is already being made, with task forces reclaiming destroyed lands and restoring water bodies. He urged Ghanaians to rally behind this national effort, stating, “Soon, Ghanaians will regain their water bodies.” Meanwhile, Kwesi Dawood, the Central Regional Director of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), reported significant strides in the fight against galamsey. Over 1,000 acres of degraded land have been reclaimed in Upper Denkyira East alone, and the number of illegal miners has plummeted. But is this enough, or do we need more aggressive tactics?
George Anane, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Upper Denkyira East, pledged to intensify the campaign against galamsey, highlighting a grim reality: over 27 residents have died after falling into abandoned mining pits. He assured that ongoing land reclamation efforts will not only prevent such tragedies but also restore the land for productive use. Anane also warned of stricter enforcement, promising arrests and prosecution for anyone mining in protected areas. He boldly declared that the municipality aims to achieve “zero galamsey” by year-end.
But here’s the part most people miss: While these efforts are commendable, the human cost of galamsey—both in terms of lives lost and environmental destruction—continues to mount. Is a “shoot and kill” policy the solution, or could it lead to further harm? And what role should the government play in approving such extreme measures? These questions spark debate, and we want to hear from you. Do you agree with Colonel Narh’s approach, or is there a better way to tackle this crisis? Share your thoughts in the comments below—let’s keep the conversation going.