Sanction district officials failing to fight galamsey - GCAG to Mahama

The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey (GCAG) has called on President John Dramani Mahama to act quickly and firmly against illegal mining, urging him to name and punish district officials who are not doing enough to stop the problem.

In a statement released on Saturday, March 28, 2026, GCAG said the fight against illegal mining is slowing down, even though it started well under the current government.

They further explained that reports from affected areas and comments from some officials show that not much progress has been made.

Expressing their worry about the ongoing damage to rivers and forests, according to the coalition, illegal miners are still working in protected “red zones,” with rivers such as the Ankobra, Birim, Pra, and Ofin still polluted.

This, they added, puts people’s health and the environment at risk.

GCAG also criticised the poor enforcement of laws.

Security officials who fail to act on galamsey should be removed - Afadjato South MP

It said no Metropolitan, Municipal or District Chief Executive (MMDCE) has been punished, despite earlier promises that their performances would be judged based on how they fight galamsey.

“Not a single DCE or MCE has faced consequences. Name them! Sanction them! Remove them!” the coalition demanded.

GCAG also urged the government to take urgent steps, including suspending small-scale mining licenses, strengthening enforcement, and providing more resources to agencies like the Forestry Commission and the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat.

It also wants regular updates on water quality to keep the public informed.

The coalition warned that without strong leadership and clear actions within set timelines, the fight against galamsey will not succeed, and the damage to the environment could affect the country for many years.

SO/AE

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