Anti-Galamsey Coalition Calls for Probe into Politicians' Involvement in Illegal Mining

Accra, Ghana - 17 March, 2025 - Ghana's fight against illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, has reached a critical juncture, with the government vowing to take decisive action to combat the environmental and security threats posed by this menace.

A recent meeting between representatives of the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining and Minister of Lands and Natural Resources Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah highlighted the urgent need for action.

The Coalition's demands include investigating politically affiliated mining companies, declaring a state of emergency in nine forest reserves ravaged by galamsey, and probing the source of firearms used by illegal miners.

Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, a representative of the Coalition, emphasized that holding influential figures accountable is crucial to successfully combating galamsey. "Unless these individuals are brought to justice, the fight against galamsey will remain an uphill battle," he stated.

In response, Minister Buah outlined the government's initiatives to combat galamsey, including ongoing engagements with stakeholders, seizures of equipment, and arrests. He also revealed upcoming measures, such as the Blue Water Initiative and the Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative, aimed at rehabilitating degraded areas.

The government plans to decentralize the fight against galamsey by engaging regional security agency heads, district chief executives, and other stakeholders. Minister Buah assured the Coalition of the government's commitment to resolving the crisis, emphasizing the need for collective support.

Source: Lead News Online