No gov’t bold enough to stop galamsey – KSM
Popular stand-up comedian and social commentator, Kwaku Sintim-Misa (KSM), has expressed deep disappointment over Ghana’s handling of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
Speaking on his YouTube platform, KSM stressed that despite years of political promises, no government has demonstrated the courage or genuine commitment to tackle the menace, which he described as both a livelihood and a national crisis.
“Galamsey has become a source of livelihood for so many people. Over one million Ghanaians are actively involved in or depend on galamsey to survive,” KSM noted
“So tell me, which government has the boldness to say: “We are stopping galamsey,” knowing the people who depend on it are in the millions and they need votes to survive?” he quizzed.
The veteran comedian recalled past statements from leaders, including President John Dramani Mahama and former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who both vowed to end illegal mining.
He emphasised, however, that he has yet to see any tangible action beyond rhetoric.
“The former President said he was putting his presidency on the line. President Mahama also promised to do everything possible to stop galamsey. But I’m yet to see any political party that will boldly take action,” KSM lamented.
According to him, the failure stems from the absence of proper regulations, inadequate education and the politicisation of the issue.
He urged the government to shift the conversation from mere politics to protecting the nation’s forests and water bodies.
“As for the fight against galamsey, the narrative must change. It must be about protecting our forests and water bodies. Regulations should also prevent anybody from just getting up to say, ‘I’m a miner,’ and doing whatever they want,” the comedian stressed.
KSM further commended recent government efforts to better understand the sector, including the establishment of the Ghana Gold Board (GOLDBOD), but insisted that proactive policies and public education remain crucial.
“The reason we haven’t been able to solve this is because we haven’t sat down to understand galamsey,” he added.
