At the opening of the Mining in Motion Summit 2025 in Accra, President John Dramani Mahama announced a significant breakthrough in Ghana’s protracted fight against illegal mining, popularly known as “galamsey.” According to the president, eight of the nine forest reserves previously overrun by illegal miners have now been cleared. This major achievement signals a renewed and intensified effort to reclaim Ghana’s environment from years of devastation.
Illegal mining has long been a blight on the nation, leaving behind deforested lands and polluted rivers. The president emphasized that the flushing out of illegal miners from these forest reserves is not merely a security operation but a determined step toward safeguarding the country’s natural heritage for future generations.
In addition to reclaiming forest reserves, President Mahama highlighted the deployment of river guards tasked with removing illegal mining operations from water bodies. These river systems, vital for domestic and agricultural use, have suffered severe pollution due to the indiscriminate use of harmful chemicals like mercury. Restoring them is crucial not just for environmental reasons, but for public health, food security, and the livelihoods of millions.
One of the key takeaways from the president’s speech was his inclusive tone toward small-scale miners. “Artisanal miners are not enemies of the state,” he said, stressing the importance of collaboration with the small-scale mining sector to ensure responsible mining practices. This reflects a more balanced approach—one that recognizes the economic role of small-scale mining while insisting on environmental accountability.
To further solidify gains, the government, in collaboration with the private sector, plans to launch a massive land reclamation project covering 10,000 hectares. These lands, previously degraded by illegal mining, will be restored and possibly repurposed for agriculture, forestry, or other sustainable uses. This initiative is expected to provide jobs and rebuild the confidence of local communities in state-led environmental management.
Another major development is the overhaul of the mining permitting system. The president announced a new regime under which the importation of excavators will be tightly regulated. “No permit, no excavator,” he stated firmly. Under this policy, no one will be allowed to import excavators without a valid permit, and all such machinery will be tracked to ensure they are not used for illegal mining operations. This measure is designed to curb the free flow of mining equipment into the wrong hands.
This multifaceted strategy— combining enforcement, policy reform, and community engagement—marks a significant shift in how Ghana addresses illegal mining. It prioritizes sustainability, transparency, and inclusive governance. However, success will depend on more than just good intentions. Implementation must be rigorous, consistent, and backed by strong political will.
Ongoing monitoring, collaboration between government agencies, and active participation from communities will be crucial. Traditional leaders, local governments, and civil society organisations must be empowered and equipped to act as guardians of the environment. Public education campaigns will also play an essential role in raising awareness, especially among young people, about the dangers of galamsey and the benefits of responsible mining.
President Mahama’s statement that “mining cannot be sustainable unless it is responsible” captures the essence of this new direction. Ghana, endowed with mineral wealth, should not be forced to choose between economic development and environmental protection. With the right frameworks and partnerships, both goals are achievable.
As the nation looks ahead, the recent actions announced at the Mining in Motion Summit represent more than just progress—they represent a potential turning point. If sustained, these measures could redefine the mining landscape in Ghana and offer a model for other countries facing similar challenges.
The message is clear: Ghana is ready to chart a new course— one that values its environment, empowers its people, and holds all stakeholders accountable in the shared mission to protect the nation’s ecological future.
The writer is a Chartered Marketer and Marketing & Communications Professional
Email: cassycato20@ yahoo.com
BY MARGARET CASANDRA CATO