- Surveyors join fight against galamsey.
- Advanced tech to track illegal mining.
- Collective approach urged.
- Expertise offered to government.
The Ghana Institution of Surveyors is taking a bold step to combat the menace of illegal mining, also known as “galamsey,” which has been ravaging the environment and threatening the livelihoods of many communities. At the Institution’s Annual General Meeting in Ho, President Surv. Dr. Anthony Arko-Adjei emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between the government and the Institution to effectively tackle this issue.
Dr. Arko-Adjei highlighted the Institution’s access to advanced tools, including geospatial technology and sophisticated mapping systems, which can play a crucial role in identifying illegal mining activities and tracking their environmental impact. These technologies can provide accurate data to inform government policies and interventions aimed at curbing illegal mining.
The Institution’s expertise in surveying can help detect and map galamsey sites, and even use AI to automatically detect where these activities are taking place. This technological capability can be a game-changer in the fight against galamsey.
However, Dr. Arko-Adjei stressed that a collective approach is necessary to eradicate galamsey. He called on all relevant stakeholders, including the government, private sector, and civil society, to work together to address this complex issue.
The Institution of Surveyors is committed to supporting the government in this fight, but acknowledges that it requires a combined effort from all parties involved. Dr. Arko-Adjei reiterated that the Institution’s doors remain open for collaboration and urged the government to engage with their experts to leverage available technological solutions.
The fight against galamsey has been ongoing, with the government reporting an 85% success rate in combating illegal mining. However, more needs to be done to address the environmental degradation and social impact of galamsey.
The Ghana Institution of Surveyors’ annual conference also highlighted the importance of sustainable surveying practices and inclusive governance in land administration. The conference explored the implications of the Land Act 1036 on surveying practices and advocated for sustainable land use.
The Institution’s commitment to combating galamsey is part of its broader mission to promote sustainable development and environmental protection. By leveraging technology and expertise, the Institution aims to support the government in creating a more sustainable future for Ghana.
The call to action from Dr. Arko-Adjei is clear: it’s time for all stakeholders to come together to eradicate galamsey and protect Ghana’s environment and communities.
In conclusion, the Ghana Institution of Surveyors is taking a proactive stance against galamsey, and their expertise and technology can be a valuable asset in this fight.
