Omanghana
President John Dramani Mahama has appealed to traditional rulers to support the fight against illegal mining, stressing that their close ties to local communities make them essential to protecting Ghana’s natural resources.
Speaking during a courtesy call by chiefs from the Western North Region at the Presidency on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, Mahama urged traditional authorities to work with government agencies to safeguard rivers and forests.
The President said enforcement operations had removed illegal mining equipment from some major waterways, but pollution from adjoining tributaries continued to undermine progress.
He announced plans to allocate an additional GH¢400 million in the 2027 Budget to recruit more Blue Water Guards and strengthen river protection.
On forest conservation, Mahama said security operations had reclaimed nine heavily affected areas. Soldiers would remain stationed there to prevent illegal miners from returning.
He also stressed that enforcement must be accompanied by employment opportunities, particularly for young people drawn into illegal mining by financial difficulties.
Mahama pointed to the proposed US$10 billion New Economy Policy, targeting agriculture, manufacturing and tourism, as part of efforts to provide alternative livelihoods and reduce dependence on galamsey.
Source: Omanghana
