The Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, Mr. Tong Defa, has rejected widespread accusations that Chinese nationals are the main drivers behind illegal small-scale mining, locally known as galamsey.
Addressing journalists at a recent press engagement, the ambassador described these claims as misleading and not reflective of the full reality.
Mr. Tong emphasized that galamsey did not originate in China and is not fueled by Chinese citizens. He explained that while some Chinese individuals have been found at illegal mining sites, many of them are not operating independently and should not be blamed as the primary cause of the crisis.
“The situation is more complex than it is often portrayed,” the ambassador stated, urging the public and media to avoid blanket accusations.
He also reiterated that the Chinese government does not support illegal mining activities and is committed to working closely with the Ghanaian government to address the issue. According to him, both nations must collaborate to find sustainable and effective solutions to end galamsey in Ghana.
