Former President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his resolve to tackle illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, with determination and impartiality.
He has also urged Ghanaians to support the fight by safeguarding the nation’s water bodies and forests.
This assurance was made at a graduation ceremony held at the Ghana Military Academy on January 30, 2026.
According to him, the government has implemented robust security and enforcement measures to protect the country’s forests and water bodies from further degradation.
He noted that certain forest reserves and major river bodies have been designated as security zones, with permanent military bases established in key affected areas to deter illegal mining activities.
“Forests and river bodies have been declared security zones. Permanent military bases have been established, and offenders have been arrested and are being prosecuted,” President Mahama stated.
He added that the initiatives in place to deal with galamsey are yielding results, with some polluted rivers showing signs of recovery.
“Rivers such as the Pra, Ankobra, and Offin are gradually recovering.”
“Let me be clear, illegal mining will continue to be confronted decisively and without fear or favour,” he said.
He stressed the need for collective national effort, describing the fight as a shared responsibility that goes beyond government alone.
“This fight requires national unity. It is a moral, civic, and generational duty, and I call on all Ghanaians to stand together to restore and protect our land,” he said.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana