President John Dramani Mahama has highlighted economic pressures in the cocoa sector and logistical challenges as key factors complicating Ghana’s fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
Speaking at a meeting with Organised Labour at the Jubilee House, the President explained that falling cocoa prices have driven some farmers to abandon their farms in favour of gold mining, worsening the situation. He expressed optimism that a new pricing mechanism aimed at ensuring farmers receive about 70 percent of global cocoa prices would help reverse the trend.
Beyond economic drivers, the President pointed to significant operational constraints, including inadequate patrol resources to monitor rivers and forest reserves. He noted that the absence of patrol boats for much of the year has limited the effectiveness of enforcement efforts. Government, he said, is working with key ministries to address these gaps and strengthen the capacity of anti-galamsey teams.
While acknowledging the scale of the challenge, President Mahama stressed that illegal mining has become deeply entrenched across various sections of society, making quick solutions unlikely. He noted that resistance from some communities further complicates enforcement efforts.
Despite these challenges, the President reaffirmed government’s commitment to sustaining the fight against galamsey, emphasizing that long-term solutions will require both economic reforms and stronger logistical support for enforcement agencies.
