By: Ibrahim Issah ]
Security analyst Col. Festus Aboagye (RTD) has identified misinformation and disinformation as major obstacles hindering the government’s efforts to combat illegal mining, or galamsey, in Ghana.
Speaking on The Big Issue, the analyst emphasized that false narratives and misleading information are undermining public trust and distracting from genuine attempts to address the issue.
The analyst’s comments come amid growing concerns about the spread of misinformation on social media, which has been linked to various social and economic problems in Ghana. According to Fact-Check Ghana, coordinated disinformation campaigns have targeted key institutions, including the Electoral Commission and prominent politicians.
The galamsey menace has devastated Ghana’s water bodies, farmlands, and forest reserves, posing serious threats to public health and the environment. Despite numerous government interventions, the problem persists, with some accusing politicians and government officials of involvement in the illegal activity.
The security analyst stressed the need for honesty and consistency in tackling galamsey, urging Ghanaians to support efforts to end the scourge.
