As Ghana’s environmental crisis deepens, the Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey is intensifying pressure on the government to demonstrate greater transparency and political will in the fight against illegal mining, which continues to ravage forests, rivers, and farmlands across the country.
In a renewed call for action, the Coalition is urging swift prosecution of politically connected individuals allegedly involved in illegal mining activities. Speaking to Citi News, Convener Dr. Ken Ashigbey highlighted a petition submitted to the Presidency, demanding action against two National Democratic Congress (NDC) constituency chairpersons from Axim and Dunkwa, who have been linked to galamsey operations.
While the Office of the President has acknowledged receipt of the petition, the Coalition says the lack of a formal response raises concerns about the government’s commitment to holding powerful actors accountable.
“We’ve named specific individuals. Now the state must act,” Dr. Ashigbey stated. “If we are serious about ending galamsey, we need to go after the kingpins—those who finance, protect, and benefit from this criminal enterprise.”
Dr. Ashigbey reminded the public of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s own pledge in October 2024 to offer rewards for information on key figures in illegal mining and gold smuggling, calling on the presidency to match words with action.
The Coalition’s demands go beyond isolated arrests. It is calling for updates on high-profile investigations, including that of Akonta Mining, which was previously cited for operating within protected forest reserves. While one director of the company has reportedly been arrested, the Coalition wants full disclosure on the status of the case and others like Heritage Imperial, which allegedly violated the terms of its prospecting license to exploit forest lands.
“These are not just rogue miners with shovels,” Dr. Ashigbey said. “This is an organized, multi-layered network that involves elites, financiers, and sometimes officials. That’s why we need transparency and strong enforcement.”
The Coalition emphasized that the environmental toll of galamsey is growing irreversible, and that without decisive leadership and independent oversight, Ghana risks losing not just its natural resources but public trust in governance institutions.
With the dry season approaching—a period that often sees a spike in illegal mining activities—the Coalition is warning that delays in prosecuting known offenders could embolden more actors and undo years of environmental protection efforts.
As calls for accountability mount, environmental advocates say the fight against galamsey has reached a critical juncture: either the rule of law prevails, or political impunity deepens the crisis.
