President John Dramani Mahama has declared illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, a national emergency. He has also directed the immediate arrest and prosecution of individuals posing as members of the anti-galamsey task force to extort money from legitimate small-scale miners.
He issued the directive during his Thank You Tour in the Western North Region, speaking at a community engagement in Juaboso. Addressing a gathering of residents and miners, Mr. Mahama expressed grave concern about the damage illegal mining continues to inflict on Ghana’s water bodies, forests, and farmlands.
“The galamsey menace is now a national emergency,” he said. “We must confront it with seriousness, discipline, and honesty.”
Mr. Mahama condemned the growing trend of impostors hiding behind state-led operations to harass and exploit licensed small-scale miners. He warned that such criminal behavior undermines both government efforts and the livelihoods of law-abiding miners.
“Those impersonating task force members to extort money will not be spared,” he cautioned. “This is criminal activity, and we will ensure such individuals face the full rigour of the law.”
He also pledged to adopt a more transparent and community-based approach to addressing illegal mining, with a focus on sustainability and responsible mining practices.
The declaration comes as pressure mounts on political leaders to take decisive action against illegal mining, which continues to degrade the environment and threaten public health in many mining communities.
Mr. Mahama’s comments have sparked renewed public interest in the fight against galamsey, as Ghanaians look for stronger enforcement and lasting solutions.
