Current government more committed to anti-galamsey fight - Owusu Danso

The Executive Director of Lands and Mines Watch Ghana, Kwame Owusu Danso, has commended the government's efforts to tackle illegal mining activities in and around the country's water bodies, saying there has been a noticeable improvement in enforcement measures.

According to him, although previous administrations made efforts to address the menace, the current government's level of commitment appears stronger.

His comments come amid ongoing national discussions about the impact of illegal mining on Ghana's water bodies, forest reserves, and agricultural lands, with stakeholders continuing to call for stricter enforcement and sustainable mining practices.

Speaking on Joy Prime on Monday, June 15, 2026, Owusu Danso said the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, requires sustained political will and decisive action to protect the country's natural resources.

"There's a difference in commitment. The previous administration had invested somewhat in dealing with mining in our water bodies," he said.

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He noted that recent interventions by the government suggest a renewed determination to curb illegal mining activities, particularly in areas that have suffered severe environmental degradation.

According to him, authorities have demonstrated a stronger resolve in enforcing regulations aimed at preventing mining in rivers and other water bodies.

"This administration is really committed when it comes to preventing people from mining in our water bodies," he stated.

Owusu Danso also pointed to policy and operational changes introduced by the current administration as part of efforts to strengthen the fight against galamsey.

"Previously, there was the introduction of the airline system, and that has been done away with," he said.

However, he cautioned that the battle against illegal mining is far from over.

He explained that although illegal mining activities have reduced in some forest reserves and mining hotspots, much more work remains to be done to completely eradicate the practice.

"There's less activity now, but I think we still have a long way to go," he added.

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