Illegal mining activities in Ghana have been significantly reduced, according to Mustapha Gbande, Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). He stated that government efforts have considerably lowered the scale of this problem across the nation.
These government interventions have primarily focused on safeguarding forest reserves and vital water bodies. The strategy also includes bringing small-scale mining operations under official regulation. Specialised enforcement teams have been deployed to stop illegal mining, especially in areas that are very important for the environment. This approach aims to encourage responsible mining practices.
Ghana has long grappled with the economic and environmental impacts of illegal mining, often called 'galamsey'. This practice has degraded land and polluted rivers, impacting public health and natural resources. Previous governments have also attempted to curb these activities, with varying degrees of success. The government's current strategy includes community mining schemes to formalise and manage small-scale operations.
Speaking on Channel One TV on May 12, Mr Gbande highlighted the effectiveness of the anti-galamsey taskforce. He noted that while illegal mining has not ended entirely, it has been reduced drastically. "We’ve been able to reduce it drastically," he said, praising the taskforce for its work in protecting water bodies and forests.
The ongoing commitment to enforcing laws against illegal mining is crucial for protecting Ghana's natural wealth. Law enforcement will continue to pursue offenders, regardless of political connections. This continuous enforcement ensures that mining activities adhere to legal and environmental standards. Actions taken by the government in 2026 demonstrate a commitment to tackling this persistent national challenge.