President John Dramani Mahama has officially declared the illegal mining crisis, known locally as galamsey, a national emergency, citing its alarming impact on Ghana’s environment, particularly in forest reserves and water bodies.
Speaking at a durbar in the Western North Region on Tuesday, July 15, as part of his ongoing “Thank You Tour,” Mahama expressed deep concern over environmental destruction in communities like Awaso, Dadieso, and Sefwi Anhwiaso.
“The level of destruction we’re seeing in these areas is not just worrying — it demands immediate national attention,” he stated. “Illegal mining is threatening our water sources, forests, and food security. We must act decisively.”
Mahama vowed to strengthen the national anti-galamsey taskforce and authorized further operations to clamp down on illegal miners operating in protected zones.
He also called out unauthorized groups posing as enforcement bodies and allegedly extorting licensed small-scale miners.
“I’ve directed the police and national security to arrest and prosecute anyone engaging in these criminal acts. No one is above the law,” he said.
Reaffirming his government’s commitment to sustainable development, President Mahama assured legitimate miners of protection and support while pledging zero tolerance for illegal mining activities.
