Bibiani Collective of the Socialist Movement of Ghana Expresses Disappointment Over Lack of Timelines on Galamsey Promises
The Bibiani Collective of the Socialist Movement of Ghana (SMG) has voiced strong dissatisfaction over the government’s continued failure to set clear timelines in its promises to combat illegal mining, popularly referred to as galamsey.
Speaking to the media, Mr. Emmanuel Biri, Convener of the SMG in Bibiani, stressed that while government officials frequently assure the public of their determination to address the galamsey crisis, these assurances often lack concrete deadlines and actionable frameworks.
According to him, without specific timelines and measurable commitments, such pronouncements risk becoming political rhetoric rather than meaningful interventions.
Mr. Biri noted that the Bibiani Collective—an active civil society wing of the SMG—remains deeply committed to fighting class exploitation and its associated divisions, including gender, racial, ethnic, sexual, age, and religious inequalities.
The Collective advocates for justice, equity, and accountability not only within Ghana but across the global community.
He lamented the devastating impact of illegal mining on local communities, particularly the destruction of water bodies, farmlands, and livelihoods.
“Our environment is under siege. Rivers that once sustained life are now poisoned, farmlands are destroyed, and local economies are threatened. Yet, we continue to hear promises without plans,” he said.
Mr. Biri emphasized that the fight against galamsey cannot be waged through promises alone.
He urged the government to publish a clearly defined roadmap outlining each stage of the anti-galamsey effort, including enforcement measures, community engagement, reclamation projects, and strict timelines for implementation.
“The people need to know when action will be taken, how it will be measured, and who will be held accountable,” he insisted.
The Bibiani Collective further called for inclusive stakeholder collaboration involving traditional authorities, environmental experts, civil society groups, and affected communities to ensure that the solutions are sustainable and people-centered.
While reiterating their readiness to collaborate with all parties genuinely committed to ending illegal mining.
Mr. Biri warned that continued inaction would deepen social and environmental injustice. He urged the youth of mining communities to stand for the protection of their future, rather than short-term gains from destructive mining activities.
In conclusion, the Socialist Movement of Ghana reaffirmed its dedication to championing causes that safeguard human dignity, environmental integrity, and social accountability. The Collective called upon the government not only to speak but to act—with clarity, urgency, and responsibility.
Source:Bibianinews.com