President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated his administration’s determination to end illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, pledging that government efforts to protect the environment will remain relentless.
Speaking at the 2025 GJA/KGL National Awards held at the Manhyia Palace on Saturday, November 8, 2025 President Mahama said his government is leading a nationwide programme aimed at restoring mined and degraded lands while creating employment opportunities for the youth in affected communities.
“We’re restoring degraded lands while creating thousands of jobs for young people in affected communities. I have asked the Minister of Finance to increase the budget allocation so that we can recruit more youth into forest tree planting and the Blue Water Guard to safeguard our water bodies,” the President stated.
He revealed that each recruited youth will receive a monthly stipend of GH₵1,500 as part of the initiative.
“These youth are to be recruited from affected communities and they will receive a monthly stipend of GH¢1,500. I wish to commend journalists who persist in exposing environmental crime at great personal risk. Your bravery is noted and it’s patriotic. I wish to assure you, as the President, that I will never give up the fight,” he emphasised.
The initiative forms part of the government’s broader strategy to combat illegal mining by addressing both the environmental degradation and the social challenges it creates. It also seeks to promote sustainable livelihoods through reforestation and water protection programmes.
President Mahama further commended members of the media for their courage in reporting on environmental crimes, describing their work as vital to the nation’s collective effort to protect its natural resources.
