NAIMOS Task Force halts galamsey on Cocobod analysis lands – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

In a decisive move to combat illegal mining activities, the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) Task Force conducted a significant operation on January 7, 2026, at the Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) Demonstration Farm in Bunso, Eastern Region, Ghana. This raid resulted in the arrest of 12 illegal miners and the seizure of 8 excavators used for unauthorized mining operations. The operation underscores the government’s intensified efforts to curb the destructive practice of galamsey, which has been a persistent challenge to Ghana’s environment, economy, and agricultural productivity.

Illegal mining, locally known as galamsey, has long plagued Ghana’s natural resources and agricultural lands. The COCOBOD demonstration farm, a critical site for cocoa research and development, has not been spared from these destructive activities. Despite previous interventions, illegal miners have repeatedly returned to the site, prompting NAIMOS to take more assertive action. This article delves into the details of the operation, its implications, and the broader context of illegal mining in Ghana.

Key Points

Background

The Rise of Galamsey in Ghana

Illegal mining, or galamsey, has become a significant issue in Ghana over the past two decades. The practice involves the extraction of minerals, particularly gold, using rudimentary methods without proper authorization. The allure of quick financial gains has drawn many Ghanaians, including youth and women, into this illicit activity, despite its severe environmental and social consequences.

Ghana is one of the largest gold producers in Africa, and the sector contributes significantly to the national economy. However, the proliferation of galamsey has led to widespread environmental degradation, including deforestation, water pollution, and the destruction of fertile agricultural lands. The government has repeatedly pledged to eradicate illegal mining, but the problem persists due to various factors, including poverty, lack of alternative livelihoods, and corruption.

The Role of NAIMOS

Established in 2017, the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) is a specialized unit tasked with coordinating and executing operations to combat illegal mining across Ghana. The secretariat works in collaboration with various security agencies, including the military, police, and environmental protection agencies, to detect, deter, and dismantle illegal mining operations.

NAIMOS has been at the forefront of the government’s efforts to tackle galamsey, conducting numerous operations across the country. The secretariat employs a multi-faceted approach that includes intelligence gathering, community engagement, and the use of advanced technology to monitor and prevent illegal mining activities.

Analysis

The Significance of the Bunso Operation

The raid on the COCOBOD demonstration farm in Bunso is particularly significant for several reasons. Firstly, the site is a vital agricultural research facility dedicated to cocoa production, which is a cornerstone of Ghana’s economy. Cocoa is one of the country’s primary export commodities, and any disruption to research and development activities can have far-reaching consequences for farmers and the national economy.

Secondly, the repeated incursions by illegal miners into the demonstration farm highlight the challenges faced by enforcement agencies in maintaining long-term control over affected areas. Despite previous interventions by NAIMOS, the miners returned to the site, indicating the need for more sustained and comprehensive strategies to prevent recidivism.

Thirdly, the seizure of 8 excavators represents a significant blow to the illegal mining operations in the area. Heavy machinery is essential for large-scale galamsey activities, and the removal of such equipment can disrupt the operations and deter potential offenders.

Environmental and Economic Implications

The environmental impact of galamsey is profound. Illegal mining activities often involve the clearing of vegetation, excavation of soil, and the use of harmful chemicals such as mercury and cyanide to extract gold. These practices lead to soil erosion, water pollution, and the destruction of ecosystems, affecting both human and animal populations.

In the case of the Bunso demonstration farm, the intrusion of illegal miners poses a direct threat to the agricultural research conducted at the site. The farm serves as a testing ground for new cocoa varieties, farming techniques, and pest control methods. Any damage to the land or contamination of water sources can compromise the integrity of research findings and hinder efforts to improve cocoa production.

From an economic perspective, the protection of agricultural lands is crucial for food security and rural livelihoods. The destruction of farmland by illegal miners displaces farmers, reduces agricultural output, and exacerbates poverty in affected communities. By safeguarding the COCOBOD demonstration farm, NAIMOS is not only protecting a research facility but also supporting the broader agricultural sector and the livelihoods of thousands of farmers.

Challenges in Combating Illegal Mining

Despite the efforts of NAIMOS and other agencies, several challenges hinder the effective eradication of galamsey in Ghana. One of the primary challenges is the socio-economic context in which illegal mining thrives. Many individuals engage in galamsey out of necessity, driven by unemployment, poverty, and the lack of alternative livelihoods. Addressing these underlying issues requires a holistic approach that goes beyond law enforcement.

Another challenge is the involvement of powerful individuals and networks in illegal mining operations. Some reports suggest that certain politicians, traditional leaders, and businesspeople have financial interests in galamsey, making it difficult to enforce the law impartially. Corruption within law enforcement and regulatory agencies further complicates efforts to combat the problem.

Additionally, the vastness of the country and the remote locations of many mining sites make it difficult for enforcement agencies to maintain constant surveillance. Illegal miners often operate in densely forested areas or near water bodies, making detection and intervention challenging.

Practical Advice

For Policymakers and Government Agencies

• Strengthen Inter-Agency Collaboration: Enhance coordination between NAIMOS, the military, police, environmental agencies, and local authorities to ensure a unified and effective response to illegal mining.
• Invest in Technology: Utilize satellite imagery, drones, and other advanced technologies to monitor mining activities and detect illegal operations in real-time.
• Community Engagement: Work with local communities to raise awareness about the dangers of illegal mining and promote alternative livelihoods.
• Legal Reforms: Review and strengthen existing laws to ensure that penalties for illegal mining are commensurate with the environmental and economic damage caused.
• Support for Alternative Livelihoods: Provide training, funding, and resources for alternative income-generating activities, particularly in mining-affected communities.

For Local Communities

• Report Illegal Activities: Encourage community members to report illegal mining activities to the authorities without fear of reprisal.
• Participate in Awareness Campaigns: Engage in educational programs about the environmental and health impacts of galamsey.
• Support Sustainable Practices: Promote and adopt sustainable agricultural and economic practices that do not rely on the destruction of natural resources.
• Collaborate with Authorities: Work with NAIMOS and other agencies to identify and address the root causes of illegal mining in the community.

For International Partners and NGOs

• Provide Technical Assistance: Support Ghana’s efforts to combat illegal mining through capacity building, training, and the provision of equipment.
• Facilitate Knowledge Exchange: Share best practices and lessons learned from other countries that have successfully addressed illegal mining.
• Support Research: Fund studies on the environmental, social, and economic impacts of galamsey to inform policy decisions.
• Promote Responsible Mining: Advocate for responsible mining practices and support initiatives that promote the formalization of small-scale mining.

FAQ

Conclusion

The recent operation by the NAIMOS Task Force at the COCOBOD demonstration farm in Bunso is a commendable step in the ongoing battle against illegal mining in Ghana. The arrest of 12 illegal miners and the seizure of 8 excavators send a strong message that the government is committed to protecting the country’s natural resources and agricultural lands.

However, this operation also highlights the persistent challenges in eradicating galamsey. The repeated incursions into the demonstration farm underscore the need for more sustained and comprehensive strategies that go beyond enforcement. Addressing the socio-economic drivers of illegal mining, strengthening inter-agency collaboration, and engaging local communities are essential components of a holistic approach to tackling this complex issue.

Protecting sites like the COCOBOD demonstration farm is not just about preserving agricultural research; it is about safeguarding the livelihoods of farmers, ensuring food security, and promoting sustainable development. The success of efforts to combat galamsey will depend on the collective commitment of the government, communities, and international partners to find lasting solutions that balance economic development with environmental protection.

As Ghana continues its fight against illegal mining, the lessons learned from operations like the one in Bunso will be invaluable in shaping future strategies. By combining enforcement with prevention, education, and community development, the country can move towards a future where its natural resources are managed sustainably for the benefit of all.