2024 SONA: ‘Galamsey Fight Was My Toughest Battle’ – Akufo-Addo
President reflects on the challenges and sacrifices in the battle against illegal mining, highlighting Ghana’s progress and the need for sustainable resource management
- Akufo-Addo acknowledged risking his presidency to combat the environmental devastation caused by illegal mining
- Ghana led Africa in gold production in 2023 and advanced refinery projects to boost the mining sector
- The president called on stakeholders to prioritize responsible mining practices to ensure environmental preservation
President Nana Akufo-Addo has described the battle against illegal mining as the most challenging endeavor of his presidency.
In his address to Parliament during the 2024 State of the Nation Address, he revealed how the fight against galamsey nearly cost him his presidency, as he was willing to sacrifice everything to protect the environment and water bodies from the devastating impact of illegal mining activities.
Akufo-Addo recalled that from the beginning of his administration, tackling the galamsey crisis was a top priority. Despite facing significant political fallout, including the loss of parliamentary seats in the 2020 elections, the President remained resolute in his commitment to safeguard Ghana’s natural resources.
The government’s continued efforts against illegal mining led to notable successes, including Ghana’s position as Africa’s leading gold producer, with 4 million ounces of gold produced in 2023. Additionally, the completion of a 400kg-capacity gold refinery and the advancement of a $450 million manganese refinery at Nsuta were key milestones.
Akufo-Addo called for continued collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure responsible mining practices, stressing the importance of preserving the environment for future generations.
He emphasized that the fight against galamsey is not a fight against mining itself, but a fight to protect Ghana’s land, water bodies, and natural resources.
