President John Dramani Mahama has described the ongoing surge in illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, as a national emergency, pledging intensified efforts by government to tackle the crisis.
Speaking during a durbar on his ‘Thank You Tour’ of the Western North Region on Tuesday, July 15, the President expressed deep concern over the widespread environmental devastation in areas such as Awaso, Dadieso, and Sefwi Anhwiaso, attributing much of the damage to illegal mining operations.
“We are alarmed by the environmental destruction that is reported across Awaso, Dadieso, and Sefwi-Anhwiaso, mainly due to illegal mining. I must be honest, this is a national emergency,” President Mahama stated.
He assured the public that the national anti-galamsey taskforce will continue its operations, particularly targeting activities in forest reserves and water bodies where the impact is most severe.
The President also turned his attention to unauthorised anti-galamsey task forces, accusing some of them of extorting money from licensed small-scale miners.
“I have also noticed the activities of the illegal anti-galamsey taskforce that go round extorting money from legitimate small-scale mining companies,” he said.
President Mahama confirmed that he has instructed the relevant authorities to arrest and prosecute any individuals found engaging in such acts.
