Mahama directs anti-galamsey team to seize, not burn excavators

President John Dramani Mahama has directed the task force combating illegal small-scale mining, known as galamsey, to seize excavators rather than destroy them.

The directive marks a shift from the previous administration’s approach, which faced criticism for burning excavators used in illegal mining activities.

Speaking after a meeting with members of the Christian Council at the Jubilee House on Friday, February 21, President Mahama stressed the need for a more structured and sustainable approach to tackling illegal mining.

“I’ve told them not to burn the excavators. They should confiscate them,” he stated.

He also highlighted the significant impact of galamsey on livelihoods, revealing that approximately 1.8 million Ghanaians are engaged in small-scale mining.

While recognizing its economic importance, he emphasized the need for responsible mining practices to prevent environmental destruction.

The President further disclosed that 43 out of Ghana’s 280 forest reserves have been degraded due to illegal mining.

To address this, the government has intensified efforts to reclaim affected areas, with recent operations in the Tano Nimri Forest Reserve leading to the seizure of excavators and other mining equipment.