The Ghanaian government has acknowledged the mounting public outcry over illegal small-scale mining, popularly known as galamsey, and pledged stronger interventions to tackle the menace. According to Communications Minister Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the administration considers these grievances legitimate and is prepared to escalate its response if the situation worsens, including the possibility of declaring a state of emergency.
Government’s Position on Galamsey
Speaking in Accra, Kwakye Ofosu stressed that President John Dramani Mahama is fully aware of the dangers posed by galamsey to Ghana’s environment, rivers, and farmlands. He explained that the presidency already treats the crisis as “a national emergency in all but name,” but a formal declaration of emergency powers would only be invoked if deemed absolutely necessary.
“The government is deeply aware of the genuine concerns expressed by citizens. Galamsey is an insidious problem that cannot be brushed aside. The President has not ruled out declaring a state of emergency, but such a drastic measure requires compelling justification,” Kwakye Ofosu said.
State of Emergency Not Off the Table
The minister explained that a state of emergency on galamsey would involve extraordinary measures that go beyond ordinary governance processes. Among the possible interventions are:
- Deploying special security task forces to reclaim mining areas.
- Restricting access to certain mineral-rich zones through emergency regulations.
- Fast-track courts to prosecute offenders and reduce delays in the justice system.
Kwakye Ofosu, however, cautioned that such drastic steps would be a last resort, to be taken only if current strategies fail to stem the crisis. He noted that extraordinary interventions must be carefully justified to avoid unnecessary disruption of constitutional processes.
Previous Government Condemned
Kwakye Ofosu directed sharp criticism at the previous administration under President Akufo-Addo, arguing that it “deserved every condemnation it received” for its handling of galamsey. He accused the former government of weak enforcement and political complicity, noting that its much-publicised initiatives, such as “Operation Vanguard,” failed to yield lasting results.
“Citizens lost trust because political actors were perceived to be linked to galamsey operators. The lack of transparency and selective enforcement made people believe the campaign was half-hearted,” he said.
For many Ghanaians, the legacy of the former administration’s anti-galamsey efforts is one of broken promises and unmet expectations, contributing to the scepticism surrounding current interventions.
Current Measures Against Galamsey
The Mahama administration, according to Kwakye Ofosu, is pursuing a multi-pronged approach that combines enforcement with reform:
- Over 1,000 illegal miners arrested in recent months, with ongoing investigations to dismantle networks.
- Special courts are being established to handle galamsey-related cases exclusively, ensuring timely trials.
- Community engagement has been strengthened, with chiefs, opinion leaders, and youth groups being brought into the fight.
- Sustainable mining investments are being promoted to balance livelihoods with environmental protection.
- River and land reclamation projects are being considered to restore areas destroyed by illegal mining.
“These actions prove that this government is not only condemning galamsey in words but also backing up its commitments with decisive action,” Kwakye Ofosu noted.
Why Public Concerns Are Legitimate
Civil society groups, faith-based organisations, and residents in mining areas have consistently highlighted the devastating impact of galamsey. The consequences include:
- Polluted rivers like the Pra, Offin, and Ankobra, which provide drinking water to millions.
- Destroyed cocoa farms, threatening Ghana’s agricultural economy.
- Mercury contamination, posing severe health risks to communities.
- Deforestation, undermining biodiversity and worsening climate change vulnerabilities.
Kwakye Ofosu admitted these concerns are “genuine and well-founded,” stressing that ignoring them would be irresponsible. He promised that the government is working to protect both the environment and the livelihoods of small-scale miners who operate legally.
A Long Road Ahead
While Kwakye Ofosu refrained from setting a timeline for ending galamsey, he stressed that the government is committed to a sustained fight.
“This is not a problem that can be solved overnight. It requires consistent effort, legal reforms, and national unity,” he said.
He called on opposition parties, traditional authorities, and civil society to support anti-galamsey policies, warning that politicisation weakens enforcement and emboldens illegal miners.
National Unity Key to Success
Analysts argue that the galamsey problem is not only about law enforcement but also about political will and social consensus. For decades, illegal mining has been a source of income for thousands, making it difficult to tackle without providing alternatives.
Experts recommend:
- Alternative livelihoods in agriculture and eco-tourism for miners.
- Stricter border controls to prevent illegal gold smuggling.
- Transparency in licensing to eliminate corruption.
- Public education campaigns to highlight the dangers of galamsey.
Kwakye Ofosu acknowledged that these broader reforms are essential if the fight against galamsey is to succeed.
Conclusion
The recognition of genuine public concerns on galamsey marks a shift in tone by the Mahama administration. While the government has yet to declare a state of emergency, its willingness to consider such a drastic option underscores the severity of the crisis.
With more than 1,000 arrests, plans for special courts, and ongoing engagement with communities, Ghana’s leadership insists it is committed to finding lasting solutions. Whether these measures will overcome years of mistrust and entrenched interests remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: galamsey has become a defining test of governance, environmental stewardship, and political accountability in Ghana.
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