Prez. Mahama Wages War Against Galamsey
President John Dramani Mahama has pledged to lead an uncompromising, nationwide crackdown on illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, following the August 6 military helicopter crash that killed eight people, including two cabinet ministers spearheading the anti-galamsey fight.
The fatal incident claimed the lives of Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, and six other public servants. The group had been en route to launch a community mining scheme aimed at transitioning some illegal miners into the formal, regulated sector.
Speaking to JoyNews after signing the book of condolences for the victims, Minister of Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa said the tragedy had deepened the President’s resolve to eradicate the menace.
“I can confirm to you that you are going to see a fight that has never been witnessed in this country,” Ablakwa stated. “President Mahama is going to lead a very ruthless and relentless campaign against galamsey. He has not minced words at all.”
Ablakwa disclosed that the President had addressed an emergency mini-cabinet meeting earlier in the day, where he made his intentions clear. “There was no ambiguity — he would be leading a war that we have never seen to deal with this existential threat once and for all,” he said.
Environmental and Economic Toll
Recent reports indicate that more than 19,000 hectares of cocoa farmland have been destroyed by illegal mining, undermining one of Ghana’s key export industries. The operations’ heavy reliance on toxic chemicals such as mercury and cyanide has polluted over 60% of Ghana’s major water bodies, including the Pra and Ankobra rivers. Environmental experts warn that without drastic action, Ghana could be forced to import water by 2030.
A New Approach to an Old Battle
While previous initiatives like Operation Vanguard and Operation Halt have had limited long-term impact, the government says this new campaign will be more aggressive, sustained, and far-reaching. It will not only target small-scale illegal miners but also dismantle the powerful financial and political networks that enable and protect the trade.
Public reaction to the President’s vow has been mixed — with some praising the bold stance and others calling for proof of action given the entrenched nature of galamsey in certain regions.
For now, the deaths of two key ministers have transformed the fight from a policy challenge into a national mission.
Read More: Pres. Mahama Bans Excavator Imports Without Permit to Combat Galamsey in Ghana