President John Mahama has described the environmental destruction caused by illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, as a national emergency, pledging swift and decisive action to address the worsening crisis.
Speaking at a durbar during his “Thank You Tour” of the Western North Region on Tuesday, July 15, President Mahama expressed deep concern over the scale of devastation observed in Awaso, Dadieso, and Sefwi Anhwiaso. He attributed the alarming degradation of forest reserves and water bodies in these areas to the unchecked operations of illegal miners.
“The level of destruction across Awaso, Dadieso, and Sefwi-Anhwiaso is deeply troubling. We must confront this head-on—this is now a national emergency,” Mahama stressed.
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He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering the national taskforce to intensify efforts against illegal mining, particularly within protected forest zones and water sources.
However, the President also took aim at rogue elements posing as anti-galamsey taskforces who exploit the situation for personal gain. He condemned reports of such groups extorting money from licensed small-scale miners under the guise of enforcement.
“I have been made aware of illegal taskforces extorting money from legitimate small-scale mining operators. This is unacceptable,” Mahama stated firmly.
“I have instructed the relevant authorities to arrest and prosecute anyone found engaging in such unlawful activities,” he added, vowing to uphold justice and restore order in the mining sector.
Story By: Afia Ohenewaa Akyerem