President John Dramani Mahama has pledged to target the financiers and powerful actors behind illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, as part of renewed efforts to clamp down on the destructive practice.
Speaking during his State of the Nation Address before Parliament of Ghana, the President stated that the fight against galamsey will no longer focus solely on operators on the ground but will extend to what he described as the “big fishes” who fund, protect and profit from the activity.
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He revealed that prosecutions have been intensified, with security agencies and prosecutors directed to fast-track cases involving illegal mining.
According to him, government is determined to ensure that those found culpable,regardless of status or political affiliation ,are held accountable.
President Mahama acknowledged the severe environmental damage caused by illegal mining, including the pollution of water bodies, destruction of farmlands and loss of forest cover. He stressed that safeguarding Ghana’s natural resources is a national responsibility that cannot be compromised.
The President also indicated that surveillance and monitoring mechanisms have been strengthened, while inter-agency collaboration has improved to track illegal mining networks. He assured the public that the campaign would be sustained and backed by firm political will.
His comments come amid growing public concern over the impact of galamsey on communities and the environment, with many calling for tougher enforcement against those believed to be shielding the trade.
President Mahama reiterated that restoring degraded lands and protecting water resources remain central to his administration’s environmental agenda, adding that the era of impunity in illegal mining must end.
