Galamsey crisis worsening; state agencies must act – A Rocha Ghana

The Deputy National Director of A Rocha Ghana, Darly Bosu, has expressed deep concern over the worsening impact of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, citing the severe pollution of major water bodies like the Densu River.

Speaking on the issue with Selorm Adonoo on Channel One TV’s The Big Issue, Mr. Bosu noted that despite ongoing efforts, illegal mining has intensified, especially in the period between the December 7, 2024, elections and the swearing-in of President John Dramani Mahama.

“We don’t see a commensurate action by the state agencies, particularly within the period between December 7, 2024, during the election period, right up to the swearing in of the President John Dramani Mahama, a lot happened and I don’t think we can say it has gotten better, it has gotten worse. It’s rather getting worse. The problem is big.”

He warned that more rivers could come under threat if stronger measures are not implemented to tackle galamsey.

He also raised concerns about the increasing involvement of foreign nationals, including individuals from Togo and Burkina Faso, in illegal mining activities.

While acknowledging the government’s efforts, he urged stronger actions to curb illegal mining.

“There needs to be an across board reforms with the need to changing of people in places, we need to reform the licensing regime,” he said.