Mahama to launch ‘ruthless and relentless’ war on galamsey – Ablakwa

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has disclosed that President John Dramani Mahama is preparing to roll out what he describes as the most aggressive crackdown in Ghana’s history against illegal small-scale mining, popularly known as galamsey.

Addressing journalists on Thursday, August 14, Mr Ablakwa said the President has left no doubt that the menace, which continues to pollute rivers, destroy farmlands, and displace communities, will be confronted with an intensity never before witnessed.

“I can confirm to you that you are going to see a fight that has never been witnessed before in this country. President Mahama is going to lead a very ruthless and relentless fight against galamsey,” he said.

“He didn’t mince his words. We had a brief cabinet meeting and the President was very clear that he would lead a war we have never seen before to stop this existential threat confronting us,” the minister added.

According to Mr Ablakwa, the planned intervention will mark a decisive new phase in the anti-galamsey campaign. He hinted at sweeping policy changes, tighter regulations, and coordinated security operations aimed at shutting down illegal sites, prosecuting offenders, and restoring devastated lands. He stressed that the measures will not only protect the environment but also secure water resources for future generations and safeguard lawful livelihoods.

The announcement comes in the shadow of national mourning following the August 6 Ghana Air Force helicopter crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region. Eight people lost their lives in the tragedy, including two cabinet ministers — Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed — both of whom were central to the fight against illegal mining.

Other casualties included former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, NDC Vice Chairman Samuel Sarpong, and Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator. Three military crew members — Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah — also perished.

A state funeral for Dr Boamah and the other victims will be held at the Black Star Square in Accra on Friday, August 15. Dr Murtala Muhammed and Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed were buried on August 10 in accordance with the Islamic faith