President John Dramani Mahama has acknowledged that galamsey in Ghana has become deeply entrenched, involving actors across political and traditional structures, making the fight against illegal mining increasingly complex.
Speaking during a meeting with Organised Labour at the Jubilee House in Accra, the President warned that the problem extends beyond isolated groups.
“Illegal mining has eaten into the fabric of our society… it has involved a circle of traditional rulers, political party appointees and everything.” - President John Dramani Mahama
Political transitions fuel persistence
President Mahama explained that the practice often survives political transitions, as operators align themselves with incoming administrations.
“Even when one party changes… those who were running some operation… will go to the next party and say… come and take over this operation and let’s share,” he said, admitting that individuals across the political divide are implicated.
The President also highlighted the difficulties faced by enforcement agencies, particularly the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat, noting that resistance from local communities hampers operations.
“They go to a community and the chiefs, the youth and everybody come out and resist them,” he said, stressing that the fight will require sustained effort.
He added, “I didn’t kid myself that we will be able to win that fight overnight. But we cannot relent.”
Economic drivers behind illegal mining
Linking the issue to economic pressures, President Mahama pointed to challenges in the cocoa sector as a contributing factor.
Low producer prices, he noted, have pushed some farmers to abandon cocoa farming in favour of gold mining. He expressed optimism that a new pricing mechanism would improve farmer incomes.
“We are hoping that it will stabilise… so that farmers know that they are getting 70% of the price,” he said.
The President further revealed logistical gaps in enforcement, including the lack of patrol boats to monitor waterways.
He said government is working with key ministries to provide the necessary equipment and resources to strengthen the anti-galamsey campaign, underscoring the need for a coordinated and sustained national response.
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