Mahama Declares War on Galamsey: Ministers To Face Severe Sanctions for Violations
President Mahama issues a stern warning to newly sworn-in ministers, pledging swift action against illegal mining and prioritizing environmental protection
- Ministers caught engaging in illegal mining will face severe sanctions
- All mining leases in forest reserves issued by the previous administration to be annulled
- Immediate measures to halt galamsey activities and legal actions against offender
President John Dramani Mahama has issued a stern warning to newly sworn-in ministers, cautioning them against engaging in illegal mining, commonly referred to as “galamsey.”
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of 14 ministers on Thursday, January 30, 2025, President Mahama reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to combating galamsey.
He announced plans for stakeholder consultations to develop a unified approach to address the menace.
“No member of this government is permitted to engage in small-scale mining or galamsey. Anyone caught doing so will face swift and severe consequences,” he warned.
President Mahama also revealed the government’s intention to revoke mining leases granted under the previous administration for operations in forest reserves. He emphasized the urgency of protecting the country’s natural resources, pledging to halt mining activities in sensitive ecological areas and pursue legal action against offenders.
These measures form part of a broader strategy to safeguard the environment and promote sustainable resource management.
