Ghana Seeks Military Aid to Combat Illegal Gold Mining

The high levels of mercury and other heavy metals has not only limited sources of drinking water, but also raised the water treatment costs.

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The West African nation of Ghana has sought the help of its military to combat illegal gold mining activities. The military has deployed nearly 200 soldiers in the country’s central and western regions along lakes, rivers and waterways. They have been directed to remove illegal miners and related logistics from these locations.

The Ghanaian water utility agency had earlier alleged that pollution from mining has resulted in contamination of water sources across the country. The high levels of mercury and other heavy metals has not only limited sources of drinking water, but also raised the water treatment costs.

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According to President Akufo-Addo, illegal miners have been causing severe damages to the country’s water bodies and environment. The extraction og gold by illegal miners leaves the land poisoned with toxic materials. These in turn leak out to water bodies, thus making it difficult for plants and marine life to survive. It must be noted that Akufo-Addo has been a constant supporter of efforts to end illegal mining activities. He is known for launching the largest-ever joint military-police action against illegal miners, way back in 2017.

Small-scale and informal miners account for more than 35% of the total gold produced by Ghana, majority of who operates illegally.

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