Mahama Declares Galamsey a National Emergency
President calls for urgent action as illegal mining devastates water bodies and forest reserves
- Mahama declares illegal mining a national emergency
- Vows crackdown on galamsey in Awaso, Dadieso, and Sefwi Anhwiaso
- Orders arrest of rogue taskforces extorting licensed miners
President John Dramani Mahama has described the widespread devastation caused by illegal mining (galamsey) as a national emergency, pledging stronger government intervention to curb the menace.
During a durbar held on Tuesday, July 15, as part of his ‘Thank You Tour’ of the Western North Region, President Mahama expressed alarm over the escalating environmental damage in communities such as Awaso, Dadieso, and Sefwi Anhwiaso.
“The level of destruction reported in these areas is deeply troubling. This is no longer just an environmental concern — it’s a national emergency,” he declared. “We will continue to empower the national taskforce to take decisive action against galamsey in our forests and water bodies.”
President Mahama also condemned the actions of unauthorized taskforces allegedly masquerading as anti-galamsey operatives, who are reportedly extorting money from licensed small-scale miners.
“I’ve instructed law enforcement to arrest and prosecute any individuals involved in these illegal operations. We cannot allow criminality to disguise itself as regulation,” he added.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring environmental integrity and protecting legitimate mining operations while cracking down on destructive illegal activities.
