Former Greater Accra Regional Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Joseph Ade Coker, has called for bold steps to tackle the devastating effects of illegal mining (galamsey) in Ghana, proposing a complete ban on illegal mining activities and the suspension of small-scale mining to allow for urgent land reclamation.
In an appearance on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on April 2, 2025, Ade Coker expressed grave concerns about the extensive environmental damage caused by both illegal and legal mining operations. He urged the government to take drastic action to protect the nation’s natural resources, stressing that the time for piecemeal solutions had passed.
“A complete ban on galamsey is essential, and small-scale mining should be suspended. Even large-scale mining companies should halt operations for the next three to four years so that we can restore the land,” he said, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the environment over immediate financial gains.
Ade Coker highlighted the inadequacy of the current gold export profits, claiming that Ghana is losing significant revenue due to smuggling and insufficient regulation. “The last time I heard, $2 billion worth of gold was exported to Dubai, but most of it was smuggled. Ghana earned very little from this trade,” he remarked, urging the government to rethink its approach to mining regulations.
Additionally, he proposed the creation of a national inventory to track excavators used in mining, ensuring that equipment is used legally and ethically. “We need to know where all excavators are located—whether in road construction or mining—and ensure they are registered with authorities,” he added.
The call for action comes amidst increasing reports of illegal mining activities across the country. Recently, the Western Central Regional Police Command made significant arrests in a crackdown on illegal mining operations along the Bonsa River in the Western Region. On March 31, 2025, 11 individuals—seven Ghanaians and four Chinese nationals—were arrested during an intelligence-led operation aimed at curbing the galamsey crisis.
As discussions around illegal mining intensify, Ade Coker’s proposal marks a significant shift toward prioritizing environmental recovery and regulating the mining sector for long-term sustainability.
