The National House of Chiefs has issued a strong appeal to President John Dramani Mahama to take immediate and forceful action against the worsening menace of illegal mining, locally known as galamsey, as the country battles rising public health and environmental concerns.
Addressing a durbar during Mr. Mahama’s ‘Thank You Tour’ of the Western North Region on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, the President of the National House of Chiefs and Paramount Chief of Sefwi Anhwiaso, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, warned that galamsey poses a growing threat to public health, especially in communities with newborns and vulnerable populations.
“Galamsey is seriously impacting our water bodies and causing illnesses,” the traditional ruler said. “We know the President has made commitments in the past to tackle this. We appreciate those efforts, but the situation is now urgent. We must curb galamsey immediately to avoid widespread disease.”
Ogyeahoho Gyebi II added that hospitals and clinics in mining-affected areas are recording alarming numbers of cases linked to contaminated water, including complications in unborn children. He pledged the full support of Ghana’s traditional leadership in the fight against the illegal activity.
“We, as chiefs, promise to support you in curbing this menace,” he affirmed.
Mahama declares galamsey a national emergency
In response, President Mahama described illegal mining as a national emergency, vowing to intensify enforcement efforts and restore sanity to Ghana’s devastated forest and riverine environments.
Speaking at the same durbar, Mr. Mahama expressed deep concern over the scale of environmental degradation in communities like Awaso, Dadieso, and Sefwi Anhwiaso — all in the Western North Region — where galamsey operations have left trails of destruction.
“We are alarmed by the environmental destruction that is being reported across these areas,” he said. “This is no longer just a local problem; it is a national emergency.”
President Mahama noted that the national task force against illegal mining would be strengthened to halt galamsey activities, particularly in forest reserves and on critical water bodies.
President warns rogue task forces
In a significant revelation, the former President also addressed concerns about rogue anti-galamsey taskforces allegedly exploiting legitimate small-scale miners.
“I have noticed the activities of illegal anti-galamsey taskforces who go around extorting money from licensed operators,” he said. “I have requested the appropriate authorities to arrest and prosecute any individuals involved in these corrupt practices.”
National unity is needed to defeat galamsey
The renewed push against illegal mining comes amid widespread alarm over its effects on drinking water, farmland, and the broader ecosystem.
By declaring galamsey a national emergency and securing the endorsement of the country’s traditional rulers, Mahama aims to rally a unified national front to confront the destructive practice.
As the House of Chiefs and government pledge to work together, the onus now lies on law enforcement, communities, and civil society to join the fight — not only to punish offenders, but to preserve Ghana’s health, land, and future.
