President John Dramani Mahama has issued a directive to the national anti-galamsey task force to seize, rather than burn, excavators used in illegal mining (galamsey) within the country’s forest reserves. The President made this announcement during a courtesy call by the Chairman of the Christian Council of Ghana, Reverend Dr. Hilliard Dela Dogbe, at the presidential seat of government in Accra.
The visit, organized to congratulate President Mahama on his victory in the December 7, 2024, general election, quickly turned to the pressing issue of illegal mining. During the meeting, members of the Christian Council urged the President to take decisive action in combating galamsey, a scourge that has caused severe environmental degradation across Ghana.
In response, President Mahama acknowledged the scale of the problem, describing galamsey as a “major headache” for the nation. He highlighted the complexity of the situation, noting that an estimated 1.8 million Ghanaians are currently involved in small-scale mining, both legal and illegal. While small-scale mining is recognized by Ghanaian law, the President stressed that it must be carried out in a responsible and sustainable manner, without causing harm to the environment.
The President revealed that out of Ghana’s 280 forest reserves, approximately 43 have been directly affected by galamsey activities. He recounted the success of the anti-galamsey task force’s recent operation in the Tano Nimri Forest Reserve, where several excavators used in illegal mining activities were confiscated.
“I’ve instructed them not to burn the excavators, but to confiscate them instead,” President Mahama emphasized. He explained that the task force’s new approach would ensure the equipment is repurposed or prevented from further illegal use, contributing to more sustainable enforcement efforts.
He also mentioned that a mobile team has been deployed across the nation’s forest reserves to monitor illegal mining activities. The team will provide real-time reports to the anti-galamsey task force, enabling quick response to any threats and offering reinforcement to the Forestry Commission staff in their ongoing battle against galamsey.
Addressing Galamsey and Exploring Sustainable Mining Solutions
In a move aimed at tackling the root causes of illegal mining, President Mahama announced that the Government would soon organize a national conference on small-scale mining. The conference will bring together stakeholders from across various sectors to discuss sustainable solutions, particularly new technologies that can reduce the environmental impact of small-scale mining.
He pointed to innovations in other countries where miners are required to use leach dams lined with plastic to collect gold-washing water. These systems allow for the use of cleaning agents that remove toxins from the water before it is safely discharged back into the environment. President Mahama expressed his intent to engage local miners and introduce these sustainable technologies into the Ghanaian mining sector.
The Christian Council’s Appeal for Action
Reverend Dr. Hilliard Dela Dogbe, speaking on behalf of the Christian Council of Ghana, pledged the Council’s support for the government’s efforts to combat illegal mining. He reiterated the Council’s deep concern over the galamsey menace, describing it as a disaster that threatens the country’s environmental sustainability and economic well-being.
“We want to appeal to you strongly to do all within your power to bring an end to this disaster,” Reverend Dogbe said. He called on the government to take bold steps in enforcing regulations and ensuring that Ghana’s natural resources are protected for future generations.
A Government Ready to Work
President Mahama thanked the Christian Council for their visit, emphasizing that he had already “hit the ground running” since his inauguration. He proudly stated that his promise to name his ministers within 14 days of assuming office had been fulfilled, and that Parliament had expedited the vetting process. With the new cabinet in place, he assured Ghanaians that his government was ready to tackle the many challenges facing the nation, particularly the ongoing economic crisis.
“We all know this country has been going through an economic crisis, but you don’t fully appreciate the enormity of the situation until you take charge,” President Mahama remarked. He mentioned that his government had uncovered more troubling financial issues than initially expected but remained committed to transparency and honesty in leadership.
President Mahama hinted at the upcoming National Economic Dialogue, where he intends to provide Ghanaians with a full and accurate picture of the country’s financial state. He expressed confidence that the people of Ghana understand the challenges ahead and are willing to make the necessary sacrifices for the greater good.
Collaboration with Mission Hospitals
On the subject of healthcare, the President reaffirmed his government’s commitment to strengthening mission hospitals rather than competing with them. He declared that resources would be allocated to improve existing mission hospitals to enhance service delivery.
“If the Missions are interested, we will work with them to complete unfinished projects and allow them to manage the hospitals, ensuring health services reach our communities,” he stated. In conclusion, President Mahama assured the Christian Council of Ghana that his administration’s door would always be open for dialogue on matters of such…
