'Era of impunity over' - Lands Minister warns illegal miners

Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has declared that the era of impunity in Ghana's fight against illegal mining is over.

He warned that the government will pursue all individuals, financiers and criminal syndicates involved in the destruction of the country's environment.

Speaking at the Government Accountability Series on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, he said the government would continue to enforce the law without fear or favour as it intensifies efforts to combat illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

He said those who profit from environmental degradation would be held accountable, regardless of their status or influence.

"Let me be clear, the era of impunity is over. Government will continue to pursue every individual, every financier, and every criminal syndicate that profits from the destruction of our environment. The law will be applied without fear or favour," Buah said.

Buah, however, stressed that government alone cannot win the battle against illegal mining, describing the fight as a national responsibility that requires the active participation of all Ghanaians.

He called on traditional authorities, religious leaders, licensed miners, security agencies, media organisations, local communities and citizens to support efforts to protect the country's natural resources.

Galamsey: Over 200 suspects arrested in six months - Lands Minister

"This battle cannot be won by Government alone; it is Ghana's fight. I call on all traditional leaders, religious leaders, miners, security officers, media houses, communities and citizens to stand on the side of our nation," he stated.

Buah urged Ghanaians to unite in safeguarding the country's environment, quoting Ghana's first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, to underscore the need for national solidarity.

"The forces that unite us are intrinsic and greater than the superimposed influences that keep us apart.' Today, those forces must unite us to reject greed, reject complicity, and defend our national heritage," he indicated.

He noted that future generations would judge the country's response to the illegal mining crisis and urged citizens to place patriotism, courage and unity above personal interests.

Reaffirming government's commitment to the anti-galamsey campaign, the minister said the administration would not abandon the fight despite the challenges.

"The battle against illegal mining is difficult, but the Ghanaian spirit is stronger. We will not retreat. We will not relent. We will not surrender," he said.

Buah expressed optimism that with sustained national support, Ghana would reclaim polluted rivers, restore degraded forests, protect its mineral resources and secure a greener and more prosperous future.

MRA/VPO

Mansion, Luxury Vehicles: US lists properties seized from Abu Trica amid trial