By Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama, has unveiled plans to utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI) in combating illegal small-scale mining, commonly referred to as ‘galamsey.’
He made this announcement during the ‘3rd Annual Transformational Dialogue on Small-scale Mining’ organized by the University of Energy and Natural Resources in Sunyani.
The scourge of illegal mining has become a major challenge for the government, with many Ghanaians expressing concerns about its devastating impact.
Addressing the audience, the former President underscored the importance of technological innovation in enhancing monitoring of the small-scale mining sector and mitigating its environmental consequences.
“We will introduce and encourage technological innovation to improve capacity for coordinated monitoring of the small-scale mining sector and reduce environmental impact,” he said on Wednesday, May 15.
He proposed employing AI to detect small-scale mining and galamsey activities, monitor excavators, and establish geo-fences around concessions to prevent mining operations in unauthorized areas, including water bodies.
“This will include using AI to locate all small-scale mining and galamsey operations, track excavators, and geo-fence all concessions to ensure mining operations are not conducted in unapproved areas, including water bodies.”
He stated that this initiative aims to enhance coordinated efforts in monitoring and regulating mining activities, thereby promoting sustainable mining practices and environmental conservation.
