The Bui Power Authority (BPA) has taken a significant step in supporting the fight against artisanal illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, by donating two Ford pick-up vehicles to the Savannah Regional Coordinating Council (SRCC). This gesture demonstrates the BPA’s commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to address the pressing issue of galamsey in the region.
The vehicles were presented to the SRCC Mr. Kwadwo Otopah-Poakwa representing the Chief Executive Officer of the BPA, Mr. Kow Eduakwa Sam. According to Mr. Kwdwo, “The Bui Power Authority has seen the effort by the Savannah Regional Coordinating Council to fight the artisanal illegal mining (Galamsey) and we as an interested party in the fight have deemed it necessary to support the fight.” To further aid the SRCC in their efforts, the BPA will also provide a fuel card loaded with funds every month to support the vehicles’ operations.

The Savannah Regional Minister, Hon. Lawyer Salisu Issifu Be-Awurebe, received the donation on behalf of the SRCC and expressed gratitude to the BPA for recognizing their efforts. “The donation was very timely as the REGSEC is preparing to embark on another operation along the Black Volta,” he said. Hon. Be-Awurebe emphasized that the fight against galamsey is an ongoing effort that requires sustained commitment. He also appealed to other agencies to provide additional support, particularly boats and life jackets, to facilitate the evacuation of miners along the banks of the Black Volta River.

The Regional Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to combating galamsey, stating, “The government is not against mining of minerals, but it should be legal and responsible.” He emphasized the importance of protecting the region’s water bodies and forest reserves, underscoring the need for a collaborative approach to address the issue.

The donation of the vehicles is a significant step towards enhancing the SRCC’s capacity to tackle galamsey in the region. With the BPA’s support, the SRCC can now more effectively monitor and respond to illegal mining activities, ultimately contributing to the preservation of the region’s natural resources. As the fight against galamsey continues, it is essential for stakeholders to maintain their commitment to finding sustainable solutions to this pressing issue.