Ghana Muslim Mission proposes the integration of academia towards the galamsey fight

Dr. Amin Bonsu, National Chairman, of Ghana Muslim Mission, has proposed the integration of academic institutions towards the fight against illegal mining (galamsey). 

He said academic institutions, notably the University of Mines and Technology, and other relevant institutions should be supported to enter the mining sector responsibly. 

The chairperson proposed this during the closing of the 64th annual National Conference of the Ghana Muslim Mission (GMM) in Accra. 

The conference highlighted the role of science, technology, and mathematics education (STEM) and technical, vocational, education, and training (TVET) in promoting national development. 

The three-day conference brought together all members of the GMM and stakeholders to deliberate on how to advance the humanitarian and religious course of the mission. 

The conference also featured a fund-raising effort for the renovation of the mission’s Hijaz Islamic Basic School in Accra. 

Dr. Bonsu said the support to academic institutions to fight illegal mining must include loans, access to concessions, tools, and start-up capital. 

He said the support, complemented by the research prowess of the academic institutions, would advance sustainable mining practices in the country. 

“By empowering the academic institutions, the government can foster a responsible mining industry, where both the environment and the economy can benefit and also contribute.

 Based on the strong research records of academic institutions, we believe when the government supports them, sustainable mining practices could be promoted. We are urging the government to consider including academic institutions in this fight,” he said. 

The GMM National Chairman urged the government to take an interest in the natural resources’ governance of the country, emphasising that the government must hold shares in mining companies. 

He noted that the government’s collaboration with academic institutions would not only tackle illegal mining but also reduce unemployment and create a sustainable and professionally managed mining industry that prioritises environmental sustainability. 

Dr Bonsu reiterated the call for peaceful elections by urging political leaders to be wary of their utterances in the build-up to the elections, and their rhetorics should not incite violence or chaos. 

“We kindly remind our political leaders to lead by example and ensure that their actions reflect their words of peace during the elections.

As the Prophet Muhammad said, whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should speak a good word or remain silent. Let us remember that our words carry power and must promote peace and unity,” he said. 

He also urged the Electoral Commission (EC) to remain steadfast, firm, transparent, and fair throughout the electoral process. 

The 64th annual National Conference was attended by key personalities within the Missions fraternity, regional executives, and general membership, including students of some selected second-cycle institutions.

Key events that marked the opening were speeches read on behalf of public officials and well-wishers, singing and dancing by the women’s fellowship, prayers dedicated to seeking Allah’s guidance in the buildup to the December 7th elections, and the coronation of Greater Accra Regional Imams. 

Imams and general members prayed for peace before, during, and after the elections. 

Source: GNA

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