“Small-Scale Miners Demand Probe into Mismanagement of $200M Anti-Galamsey Fund”
Small-Scale Miners Demand Investigation into $200M Anti-Galamsey Fund
The National Concerned Association of Small-Scale Miners (NCASSM) is calling for a government investigation into the use of over $200 million allocated between 2017 and 2024 to tackle illegal mining (galamsey).
Allegations of Mismanagement
In a press release, NCASSM President Michael Kwadwo Peprah raised concerns about the improper handling of funds and resources meant for addressing the environmental and social impact of galamsey. The group pointed to several issues, including:
- Pickups and Drones: The funds were used to purchase branded pickup trucks for “Operation Galam Stop” and drones for surveillance, but many of the drones are reportedly missing despite a $2 million investment.
- GalamStop Application: Around $1 million was spent on developing a platform to streamline the licensing and monitoring of small-scale mining, but the application failed to meet its intended goals.
- GPS Tracking Devices: While resources were allocated for GPS devices to track excavators, the effectiveness of these devices remains unclear.
- Training Drone Pilots: Taxpayer funds were also spent on training drone pilots, but the impact on curbing illegal mining activities has been minimal.
Additionally, the association expressed concerns about allegations that confiscated mining equipment, including excavators, had been misappropriated, sold, or destroyed without accountability.
Calls for Accountability
NCASSM has outlined several steps the government should take in response to these issues:
- Independent Investigation: Set up an independent committee to audit the $200 million allocated for anti-galamsey efforts and assess the procurement and deployment of resources like drones, trucks, and GPS devices.
- Audit of Confiscated Equipment: Investigate claims of mismanagement regarding seized mining equipment and hold those responsible accountable.
- Accountability for Failed Projects: Provide a detailed report on failed initiatives, including the GalamStop application, and determine who benefited from these failures and why they were poorly implemented.
- Prosecution of Offenders: Take legal action against individuals or groups responsible for misusing public funds or diverting resources intended for the fight against galamsey.
A Call for Transparency
The association emphasized that the success of the fight against galamsey depends on the transparent and efficient use of public resources. They called on the government to collaborate with stakeholders in the small-scale mining industry to develop sustainable solutions and ensure stronger monitoring of anti-galamsey initiatives.
“We stand with the government in the fight against illegal mining, but this support must be matched by transparency, accountability, and effective governance,” the statement concluded.
NCASSM urged Ghanaians to demand accountability to protect the future of small-scale mining and the country’s natural resources.