15.8.2025
Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama has vowed to lead what his government describes as a “relentless and ruthless campaign” to end illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, once and for all.
Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration Minister, Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, made this known as the victims of last week’s Helicopter crash that claimed the lives two ministers and six others were given a State burial Friday. They were headed for event Obuasi to attend an event meant to discourage illegal mining in the country.
Okudzeto Ablakwa said: “There was no ambiguity in Cabinet today. The President will lead a war against galamsey the likes of which we have never seen before. It will be ruthless, relentless, and aimed at eradicating this canker permanently.”
The Minister emphasized, “I can confirm to you that you are going to see a fight that has never been witnessed in this country.”
He noted that the chopper tragedy had deepened government’s resolve to confront the menace, which he described as a grave and existential threat to Ghana’s future.
He said the President’s stance was not simply about enforcing environmental regulations but about protecting lives, safeguarding national security, and honouring the memory of the fallen officers who had been committed to the nation’s progress.
“Illegal mining continues to destroy our water bodies, degrade our environment, and endanger communities,” he stated.
The Minister said the sacrifice of the ministers and service men must inspire a decisive national effort to end the illegal mining scourge.
He said government would employ every available legal, operational, and diplomatic tool to dismantle the networks that sustain illegal mining. GNA
Mahama...Ghana President