‘I don’t gain anything from galamsey’ – Mahama declares

President John Dramani Mahama has firmly denied having any personal stake in illegal mining activities, popularly known as galamsey, as his government intensifies efforts to address the menace.

Speaking during a stakeholder engagement with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) at the Jubilee House on Friday, October 3, 2025, the President stressed his full commitment to ending the crisis despite growing calls for a state of emergency in mining areas.

“We will continue to fight. I believe we will win the fight against galamsey. I have nothing to hide; I don’t gain anything from galamsey. I’m not personally involved in it, and I have no interest in its continuation,” Mahama declared.

His comments came amid widespread concern over environmental destruction, including the loss of over 1.2 million hectares of arable land and repeated shutdowns of Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) treatment plants due to severe pollution.

Attorney-General Dr. Dominic Ayine also disclosed that 600 individuals are currently facing trial in 65 ongoing cases as part of the government’s clampdown.

Pressure groups such as OccupyGhana and A Rocha Ghana have urged government to declare a state of emergency, arguing that galamsey poses a direct threat to national survival.

Acknowledging the urgency of the situation, Mahama emphasized that the fight requires a united front involving government, CSOs, traditional leaders, and religious authorities.

“You can be sure that we’re all on the same side. And we will continue to do this together,” he assured.

The Presidency is expected to review proposals from stakeholders and consider stronger enforcement and reclamation measures to address the damage, with reports indicating that nearly 60% of Ghana’s water bodies have already been contaminated.