Deputy Minister for Roads and Highways, Hon. Alhassan Suhuyini, has called for sustained national commitment to the fight against illegal mining, saying the tragic death of former Environment, Science and Technology Minister, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, should continue to inspire stronger action to protect Ghana’s natural resources.
Speaking at the one-year memorial service held in honour of the late minister, Hon. Suhuyini reflected on Dr. Murtala Mohammed’s character, describing him as a genuine, compassionate and dedicated public servant whose commitment to national development earned him the admiration of many Ghanaians.
He offered prayers for the continued strength and comfort of the late minister’s family, urging them to draw inspiration from the positive impact he made during his years of public service.
Hon. Suhuyini encouraged Ghanaians to emulate the values and principles that defined Dr. Murtala Mohammed’s life, noting that while the pain of losing a loved one never fully disappears, the best way to honour his memory is to continue the work and ideals he championed.
Turning to the government’s commitment to intensify the fight against illegal mining following the minister’s death in a helicopter crash during an anti-galamsey mission, the Deputy Minister stressed that the battle against environmental destruction is a continuous process that requires persistence and collective effort.
According to him, the fight against illegal mining cannot be measured by a single operation or event but by the sustained actions taken over time to dismantle criminal networks and protect the country’s forests, water bodies and farmlands.
He noted that state agencies have continued to carry out operations against illegal mining activities, targeting equipment, mining sites and criminal groups involved in the illicit trade.
“The fight against galamsey is not a one-off event. It is a long-term national responsibility that requires commitment, vigilance and consistency from all stakeholders,” he said.
Hon. Suhuyini emphasized that government remains determined to build on the efforts of Dr. Murtala Mohammed and other public servants who dedicated themselves to protecting Ghana’s environment and natural resources.
He said the sacrifices made by those who lost their lives in the line of duty should strengthen the nation’s resolve to confront illegal mining and other environmental threats.
The memorial service brought together ministers of state, Members of Parliament, religious leaders, family members and supporters who paid tribute to the late minister’s legacy of service, integrity and patriotism.
Many speakers at the event described Dr. Murtala Mohammed as a leader who believed strongly in environmental sustainability, scientific innovation and inclusive national development, and called for continued support for the policies and initiatives he championed.
As Ghana marks one year since the tragic helicopter crash that claimed his life and those of other government officials during an anti-galamsey mission, participants renewed calls for a united national effort to safeguard the country’s natural resources and ensure that the sacrifices of those who served the nation are never forgotten.
Story by Osman Issah Abadoo
