International journalist Kent Mensah has raised concerns about the military’s failure to protect Ghana’s water bodies from illegal mining, also known as galamsey, despite being provided with state resources and support in 2021.
In a Facebook post on October 8, 2024, Mensah questioned why the military’s deployment of 200 soldiers, announced by Defense Minister Dominic Nitiwul, did not yield the expected results.
He wondered if the soldiers had failed or were simply overwhelmed by the magnitude of the galamsey issue.
Mr Mensah, a correspondent for AFP, Aljazeera, and VOA, argued that it is unfair to place blame on other security agencies, such as the police, for the failed fight against galamsey when the military had been given the primary responsibility to address the problem.
He emphasised that the military received significant resources and state backing for the task, yet the illegal mining crisis persists, leaving the public in need of answers.
The journalist further highlighted that if even the military, with all its resources, could not successfully combat the galamsey menace, it points to a much deeper and more complex issue.
He called for greater accountability and a reevaluation of the strategies employed to tackle illegal mining in Ghana.
“What happened to the soldiers? In 2021, the Defense Minister announced that 200 soldiers had been deployed to protect our water bodies from illegal mining (galamsey). So what became of that effort? Did the soldiers fail, or were they simply overwhelmed by the scale of the problem?” Mr Mensah posted.
He added: “We deserve answers. Blaming the police and other security agencies in this fight felt misplaced when the military, with all the state resources and backing, was tasked with protecting our water. If even the military couldn't succeed in this mission, it signals a much larger issue at hand.”
Latest Stories
-
Support private health institutions – Klintaps College of Health founder to government
3 mins -
Empress Gifty saved my life after surgery – Georgia Adjei
16 mins -
Rana Motors unveils new Hyundai Mighty Truck and County New Breeze bus
26 mins -
I found solace in God – Breast cancer survivor recounts healing journey
29 mins -
Anyone who joins organised labour strike will be sacked – GIHOC CEO threatens staff
33 mins -
Adom Kiki out with new single ‘Asafo Yehowa’
34 mins -
Team Hubes Dance Crew emerge winners of Ghana DanceSport League 2024
37 mins -
Judicial Service: Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill cases not ready for hearing
1 hour -
The CERMES Foundation & Tema Metro veterinary office combat rabies
1 hour -
‘Let Love Lead’ organises +233 Peace March ahead of December Elections
2 hours -
Alan is the 3rd force Ghanaians are crying for – Suma Manhene
2 hours -
Africa Rugby, NSA appoint Normalisation Committee to oversee operations and elections of Ghana Rugby
2 hours -
Vote against NPP for denying you representation in Parliament – Asiedu Nketia to Guans
2 hours -
Alan pledges bold constitutional shake-up to empower chiefs
2 hours -
Half Year: UBA grows earnings by 40% to $1.78bn, declares interim dividend of $0.003 per share
3 hours