John Dramani Mahama stated that illegal mining, or galamsey, is deeply involved with political and traditional leaders, making the fight against it difficult but essential. Speaking to Organised Labour, he explained that the practice has spread throughout Ghanaian society, involving various influential figures.
“Illegal mining has eaten into the fabric of our society,” Mahama said, noting that operators shift allegiances between political parties. He admitted the anti-galamsey task force faces strong resistance in communities.
The President also linked galamsey to issues in the cocoa sector, where low producer prices have pushed some farmers to abandon farming for gold mining. He expressed hope that stabilizing cocoa prices with a new mechanism, aiming for farmers to get 70% of global prices, will help.
Logistical challenges, like the lack of patrol boats for waterways, are also hindering efforts. The government is working with relevant ministries to provide necessary equipment and resources for security personnel
