“Our Own People Are Involved in Galamsey” – Mahama
President Vows Continued Fight Despite Deep-Rooted Challenges
- Mahama admits galamsey involves political and traditional actors
- Says illegal mining is deeply rooted in Ghanaian society
- Task force faces resistance from local communities
President John Dramani Mahama has openly acknowledged that illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, involves individuals within both political and traditional leadership circles.
Speaking at a meeting with Organised Labour at the Jubilee House, he admitted the problem is deeply entrenched in Ghanaian society, making efforts to combat it increasingly complex.
Mahama stated that illegal mining cuts across party lines, with operators often shifting allegiance whenever there is a change in government, allowing the practice to continue unchecked.
He conceded that he does not deceive himself into thinking members of his own political side are innocent, stressing that the issue is widespread and systemic.
The President also highlighted the difficulty faced by the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat, noting that task force operations are frequently resisted by local communities, including chiefs and youth groups.
Despite these challenges, he emphasized that the fight against galamsey cannot be won overnight but must be sustained.
Mahama further linked the surge in illegal mining to struggles in the cocoa sector, explaining that low prices have pushed some farmers to abandon cocoa farming for gold mining.
However, he expressed optimism that planned reforms—particularly a new pricing mechanism aimed at ensuring farmers receive about 70% of global cocoa prices—will help discourage the shift.
He also pointed to logistical setbacks, especially the lack of patrol boats to monitor rivers and forest reserves, but assured that government is working with key ministries to provide the needed resources.
