Kumawood film producer Paul Gee, known off-screen as Paul Adjei, has urged the government to allocate GH₵2 billion (approximately $121.6 million) to the creative industry to aid in the fight against illegal mining, widely known as galamsey.
Speaking in an interview with Graphic Showbiz, Paul Gee emphasized that movies, music, and other creative content can play a significant role in raising awareness about galamsey’s damaging impact on the environment and local communities. He argued that this funding would not only help produce educational films, documentaries, and songs but also provide job opportunities and reduce unemployment.
“I’ve always said that creatives have the power to shape minds and inspire action. I, therefore, suggested that the government allocate GH₵2 billion to us to produce anti-galamsey content, create jobs, and educate affected communities,” Paul Gee explained. He added that involving well-known figures, such as actress Nana Ama McBrown, in these projects would amplify their impact.
Criticizing recent protests in Accra, Paul Gee noted that such actions are ineffective as the illegal miners are often located in rural areas rather than the capital. Instead, he suggested that targeted creative content would better reach and educate those involved in galamsey, helping to reduce reliance on brute force.
“This galamsey fight isn’t about the use of brute force. The truth is that most of these galamseyers are unemployed, so if we stop them from doing galamsey, they will resort to armed robbery and other vices,” he explained.
Paul Gee added that he is encouraged by the support of organizations like the Ghana Music Rights Organisation (GHAMRO) and the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA), which back his call for government funding to tackle galamsey through creative advocacy.
ID/OGB
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