President John Dramani Mahama has called on Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) to continue mounting pressure on his administration to sustain the national fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
Speaking at an engagement with CSOs at the Jubilee House on Friday, the President commended the groups for their advocacy and constant scrutiny, noting that such civic vigilance was essential to achieving lasting results in the anti-galamsey campaign.
“We need your support. We need your criticism. We need your advocacy. We need your pressure,” he said. “Continue to put our feet to the fire because that will encourage us to work harder.”
President Mahama reaffirmed his government’s commitment to tackling illegal mining through coordinated enforcement and community engagement rather than declaring a state of emergency.
He explained that while he has the constitutional power to declare a state of emergency in areas affected by galamsey, the National Security Council has advised that the situation can still be brought under control through existing security and policy mechanisms.
“As of now, the National Security Council believes we can win the fight without a state of emergency,” he said. “However, if the Council later advises otherwise, I will not hesitate to take that step.”
The President assured that more troops and resources would be deployed to strengthen ongoing operations and expressed optimism that the intensified efforts would yield results.
He further pledged to personally ensure that the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and other relevant agencies sustain momentum in eradicating illegal mining to protect the environment for future generations.
