In a bold move to intensify the fight against illegal mining, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has inaugurated the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), a central body mandated to coordinate and supervise all anti-galamsey efforts across the country.
The establishment of NAIMOS represents a strategic shift towards a more intelligence-led, unified, and effective approach to confronting illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey. The Secretariat was created through the collaboration of key national institutions, including the Ministry of Defence, Ministry of the Interior, the National Security Council, and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
According to the Ministry, NAIMOS will serve as the central authority for initiating, monitoring, and directing all official anti-illegal mining operations, with the aim of curbing environmental degradation, reclaiming depleted lands, and restoring polluted water bodies.
In a strongly-worded statement, the Ministry cautioned individuals and groups against undertaking any form of anti-galamsey operation without prior consultation and approval from the Secretariat. “All anti-galamsey operations, swoops, and raids conducted without the express authorization of NAIMOS are strongly discouraged,” the statement read.
Citizens are encouraged to report illegal mining activities and reach the NAIMOS team through their official line: +233 3039 82151.
Reaffirming its stance, the Ministry pledged unwavering commitment to the fight against galamsey as part of the government’s broader efforts to combat climate change, preserve the environment, and promote sustainable use of Ghana’s natural resources.
