My Gov't is committed to fighting 'galamsey' - Mahama to Catholic Bishops

President John Dramani Mahama has discussed progress in fighting illegal mining, known as galamsey. He acknowledged the complexity of this issue but noted some successes. His comments came during a visit from the Catholic Bishops’ Conference on May 24, 2025.

Mahama emphasized that small-scale mining is legal. However, he stressed the need to deter those harming the environment. Many young people turn to illegal mining due to a lack of job opportunities.

He announced plans to restore Ghana's degraded forest reserves. This will be done through a carbon credit-supported reclamation program targeting areas affected by galamsey.

The President also mentioned efforts to address pollution in water bodies like the Pra River and Birim. The government has started recruiting Blue Water Guards for this purpose.

His remarks followed a call from the Catholic Bishops’ Conference for a state of emergency on galamsey. Most Reverend Matthew Gyamfi, leader of the delegation, expressed concern over illegal mining's severe effects. He offered support to help combat this challenge.

Bishop Gyamfi warned about ecological destruction and moral decay caused by galamsey. He called for urgent policy reforms, including halting new artisanal mining licenses and reviewing existing laws.

So far, about 5,500 hectares of land have been degraded by illegal mining—equivalent to 7,500 football pitches. Although eight out of nine red zones have been reclaimed, 16% of forest reserves remain depleted.

The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources is committed to fighting galamsey with a five-pronged approach. Ama Mawusi Mawuenyefia, Director of Communications at the Ministry, highlighted measures like providing alternative livelihoods for illegal miners.

She urged all stakeholders to support these efforts. The fight against galamsey is a collective responsibility for everyone involved.