Ankobra river in Ghana shifts from illegal mining to hope
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In Ghana, the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) and Land and Natural Resource Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah have sustained a presence along the Ankobra River, reducing illegal mining activity.
For years, the Ankobra River’s banks were occupied by illegal miners using equipment like changfan machines and building makeshift workshops. However, a recent tour revealed largely deserted riverbanks where equipment and structures had been removed.
NAIMOS changed its strategy from temporary raids to a continuous presence, remaining on the river to deter miners. This approach appears successful, as nearly 3,000 mining machines have been removed from the Ankobra, Pra, and Birim rivers, and over 237 people, including 144 foreign nationals, have been arrested. Minister Buah noted the progress and expressed hope that the shift toward permanent, intelligence-led operations will be sustained.
He also highlighted a move toward responsible small-scale mining for some former illegal miners, recognizing that enforcement alone is not enough. Buah emphasized his commitment to integrity in the fight, stating he would “choose to fight with integrity and die” rather than be corrupted by illegal mining interests, as powerful financiers and sponsors often support these operations.
