Alan Kyerematen, presidential candidate for the Movement for Change, has unveiled a comprehensive plan to address Ghana’s illegal mining crisis, known as “galamsey,” by reforming the small-scale mining sector and providing youth-centered opportunities for legal industry involvement.
Speaking during a campaign event in the Greater Accra Region, Alan emphasized the high youth unemployment rate as a key factor driving many young Ghanaians into illegal mining. His solution includes a combination of stringent regulations and initiatives designed to offer viable alternatives for employment and environmental restoration.
As part of his strategy, Alan proposed implementing a one-year ban on all small-scale mining operations. This pause would allow time for a thorough environmental cleanup and restoration of the country’s degraded water bodies and forests, as well as a complete audit of the mining sector. Additionally, he committed to canceling licenses issued in the past 15 years that have ties to illegal mining activities and pledged to seize equipment used in unauthorized mining to curb environmental damage.
Alan’s plan also focuses on youth engagement in environmental efforts. He intends to create well-paying jobs for young people in reforestation projects and set up a community-led watchdog program to protect water bodies and forest reserves from future illegal encroachment.
“We will empower the youth with opportunities that safeguard the environment while providing them with sustainable livelihoods,” he said. Alan also committed to revoking mining licenses held by politicians who exploit young workers for illegal operations. Instead, these licenses would be reallocated to qualified youth, enabling them to establish lawful small-scale mining businesses.
To support these new ventures, Alan proposed a “work-and-pay” scheme, where young miners would receive the necessary funding and equipment to build their businesses independently. He described his plan as the only “bold and comprehensive 10-point strategy to end galamsey,” noting that other political leaders have avoided addressing the issue so directly.
Alan’s vision extends beyond galamsey reform to embrace a government that fosters unity and inclusivity. He introduced the idea of creating a Second Chamber of Parliament, which would include traditional and union leaders along with other community representatives. This chamber would provide a platform for diverse voices, ensuring that all communities have a role in national governance.
“Our government must transcend party affiliations and represent every Ghanaian’s voice,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of national unity.
Under his Great Transformational Plan (GTP), Alan aims to drive economic growth through an agricultural revolution, industrial development, and tourism promotion—three key sectors he believes will generate jobs, particularly for the youth. He promised a merit-based employment system that would eliminate political biases in job allocation.
“In my administration, a Ghana Card will be all you need to secure a job—not a party card,” Alan assured, signaling his commitment to fairness and equal opportunity.
Alan Kyerematen’s vision for Ghana highlights sustainable solutions to end illegal mining, uplift the youth, and promote inclusive governance. His approach aims to set Ghana on a path to economic stability, resilience, and lasting prosperity.
