Dormaahene Rejects State of Emergency for Galamsey, Urges Responsible Mining and Chief-Led Enforcement
Newly sworn-in Court of Appeal Judge and Dormaahene, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyeman Badu II, has dismissed calls for a state of emergency to combat illegal mining (galamsey), arguing that such a drastic measure is unnecessary and could disrupt Ghana’s economy.
Speaking to journalists after his induction by President John Dramani Mahama on October 2, 2025, the traditional leader emphasized responsible mining as the solution, warning that galamsey’s environmental toll—particularly on water bodies and forests—threatens both communities and perpetrators. “Nobody will argue that there shouldn’t be mining, but it should be done responsibly. That will solve the whole thing,” he said.
Justice Agyeman Badu called on chiefs to wield their authority to curb illegal mining locally, citing his own approach in Dormaa: “If you come there, I will arrest you and give you to the police so that you will be prosecuted.”
He urged traditional leaders to enforce anti-galamsey measures within their jurisdictions, stressing that offenders must face legal consequences to deter further destruction.
The Dormaahene also praised Mahama’s proactive stance, noting a reduction in galamsey activities under the current administration compared to the previous eight years under Akufo-Addo. He lauded the president’s upcoming October 3 meeting with over 30 civil society organizations to craft a national anti-galamsey roadmap, calling it a “right step” toward sustainable solutions.
However, he maintained that a state of emergency would create economic gaps by halting resource extraction without addressing root causes, advocating instead for stricter enforcement and community vigilance to protect Ghana’s environment and future.
