MUST 'GALAMSEY' BE LEGALISED?

SEWAAH AKOTO ANING, TAKORADI
It is about time the nation got serious about finding solutions to the nagging issue of galamsey. Young people engaged in the practice are dying in their numbers, and so something needs to be done soon to stem this unfortunate tide.
Galamsey is no longer the preserve of men. Now, many women too are actively engaged in the activity. This goes to show that in spite of the dangers involved, there is money to be made, and this is what is driving many of the youth into the sector.
I think it is about time the nation invested some effort to ensure safety in the sector. I suggest that a committee be set up to study the intricacies of galamsey operations in the country and its impact on the local and national economy.
Many people do not know this, but galamsey contributes significantly to the economies of the local communities in which they operate, and so it is important that the sector is given the necessary support to make it more viable.