Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, the Member of Parliament for Mampong, has called for formalising the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) through a Legislative Instrument (L.I.). He believes this formalisation is essential to strengthen Ghana's fight against illegal mining, commonly known as 'galamsey'. The MP's proposal aims to give NAIMOS clear legal authority and operational independence.
Mr. Ampratwum-Sarpong, who is also the Ranking Member of Parliament’s Select Committee on Lands and Natural Resources, explained that an L.I. would define NAIMOS's role, powers, and structure. It would also establish clear accountability mechanisms. This step intends to ensure that anti-galamsey efforts continue consistently, regardless of changes in government. He made this call in a statement supporting the Presbyterian Church of Ghana's nationwide anti-galamsey campaign.
Ghana's economy suffers significantly from illegal mining activities, which degrade land and pollute water bodies. Previous efforts like Operation Vanguard and GalamStop have not permanently solved the problem. The call for a legal framework for NAIMOS fits into a broader national conversation about ensuring sustainable resource management. This initiative could protect vital natural resources that underpin Ghana's agricultural sector and public health, which directly affects millions of citizens.
The Mampong MP stated, "What Ghana needs is a sustainable institutional framework that transcends political administrations." This framework would allow for a more credible and permanent national response to the galamsey menace. He highlighted that past galamsey activities have sometimes been aided or protected by powerful individuals, including politically exposed persons. A legally backed NAIMOS could operate without such political interference.
Formalising NAIMOS could shield anti-galamsey operations from political influence, making enforcement efforts more effective. This move suggests a shift towards treating illegal mining as a national enforcement and governance issue, rather than a partisan political one. The involvement of religious bodies like the Presbyterian Church of Ghana in anti-galamsey campaigns underscores the growing public concern and the urgency of the situation. This bipartisan approach could lead to more robust long-term solutions for an issue that impacts Ghana's economic stability and environmental integrity. Policymakers will be watching closely to see if this proposal gains traction and leads to concrete legislative action.