Forget it, you people can never get rid of galamsey - Chinese Ambassador tells Ghana
Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Tong Defa has stated explicitly that Ghana may never be able to eliminate illegal mining, locally known as galamsey.
Speaking at a media interaction held at his private residence in Accra, the ambassador acknowledged the persistent and deep-rooted nature of small-scale mining in Ghana, noting that despite efforts, the practice remains tied to illegalities.
“To my understanding, in this country, you can never eliminate those small mines. Those mines—you will have illegalities involved in them,” he said.
While his remarks have been described by some as “blunt,” Ambassador Tong emphasized the need for practical solutions and responsible policy direction, rather than expecting total eradication.
“We need to find ways to solve this problem… The government needs to work on a policy to eliminate the pollution of waters and forests,” he urged.