President John Dramani Mahama has introduced a new approach to tackling illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey. Instead of burning seized excavators, he has directed authorities to confiscate and repurpose them for legal mining activities.
Speaking at a meeting with the Christian Council of Ghana at the Jubilee House, President Mahama emphasized the need for responsible mining, acknowledging that about 1.8 million Ghanaians depend on small-scale mining for their livelihoods. However, he stressed that economic benefits should not come at the cost of environmental destruction, revealing that illegal mining has already degraded 44 out of Ghana’s 288 forest reserves.
The President highlighted recent successes in flushing out illegal miners from the Tano Nimri Forest and stated that a mobile task force is now focusing on other affected areas.
Rev. Dr. Hilliard Dela Dogbe, Chairman of the Christian Council, pledged the Council’s support for the government’s fight against galamsey. While the Church will continue educating its members about the dangers of illegal mining, he called on the President to take firm action, saying political authority is key to ending the menace.
Rev. Dr. Dogbe also emphasized the importance of ethical leadership in addressing national challenges, assuring the President of the Council’s prayers and support.
