In a bold move to address the pressing issue of illegal mining, known as galamsey, former President John Dramani Mahama has unveiled plans to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology as part of his strategy to tackle the environmental menace.
During a public address, Mahama outlined his vision for utilizing AI to monitor and combat illegal mining activities across the country. The initiative aims to enhance surveillance capabilities, streamline data analysis, and facilitate targeted enforcement actions to curb the destructive practice of galamsey.
“Artificial Intelligence presents a powerful tool in our fight against galamsey,” remarked Mahama. “By harnessing advanced technologies, we can strengthen our monitoring efforts and enforce environmental regulations more effectively.”
Mahama’s proposal comes amidst growing concerns over the environmental and social impact of illegal mining activities in Ghana, including deforestation, pollution of water bodies, and the degradation of arable land.
The former president emphasized the importance of adopting innovative approaches to address the complex challenges posed by galamsey, highlighting the potential of AI to revolutionize environmental protection efforts.
Under Mahama’s plan, AI-powered monitoring systems would utilize satellite imagery, drones, and other advanced technologies to track and identify illegal mining operations in real-time. This data would then be analyzed to generate actionable insights and inform targeted interventions by law enforcement agencies.
The announcement has garnered attention from environmental advocates and policymakers alike, with many expressing optimism about the potential of AI to strengthen Ghana’s anti-galamsey efforts.
As the nation grapples with the multifaceted impacts of illegal mining, Mahama’s proposal signals a forward-thinking approach to tackling one of Ghana’s most pressing environmental challenges. With AI technology at the forefront, there is hope for a more sustainable and resilient future for Ghana’s natural resources and communities affected by galamsey.
story filed by: Nana kwaku Duah
