“Take Galamsey Seriously” – Chinese Embassy Urges Ghana

The Chinese Embassy in Ghana has reiterated its support for the country’s ongoing efforts to curb illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, urging both government and citizens to adopt a more resolute stance against the menace.

Speaking at a training workshop on “Green Mining: Best Practices for Responsible Reporting,” organised by the Ghana News Agency at Peduase on Thursday, December 11, Chinese Ambassador Tong Defa stressed the need for stronger national commitment to ending illegal mining.

He warned that without collective seriousness, the fight against galamsey would remain difficult.

According to him, the issue requires a unified approach from authorities, communities, and stakeholders, noting:

“As I have reiterated many times in this country, Ghanaians must take the galamsey issue seriously. If you do not take it seriously, there is no simple way out.”

Calls for Balanced Media Reporting

Ambassador Tong also urged the Ghanaian media to provide accurate and balanced coverage of Ghana–China relations. He cautioned against generalising the actions of a few Chinese nationals engaged in illegal mining to the wider Chinese community in Ghana.

He emphasised that China does not condone illegal activities by its citizens and remains committed to lawful cooperation.

China Reaffirms Support

The Ambassador reiterated China’s readiness to work with Ghana to promote responsible and environmentally sustainable mining practices.

“For us, we support the Ghanaian government to tackle this problem… We want to reiterate that the Chinese should do things legally,” he added.