End galamsey impunity now to protect rivers, forests and public health – Frimpong-Manso Institute to govt

The Frimpong-Manso Institute (FMI) has called for an immediate end to impunity in illegal small-scale mining, popularly known as galamsey, warning that the practice continues to devastate rivers, farmlands, and forest reserves across the Ashanti and Western Regions.

In a press statement released on February 24, 2026, FMI highlighted what it described as a persistent “raid-return cycle,” where illegal miners reappear shortly after security operations, often more organized than before.

“Raid without integrity reforms simply resets the cycle: raid today, return tomorrow,” the statement said. “Communities cannot drink gold. Ghana must not normalise environmental crime while communities pay the price through unsafe water, damaged livelihoods, and weakened trust in institutions.”

The Institute cited reports and community testimonies pointing to integrity failures, including bribery and protection networks, that allow illicit machinery, fuel, and gold markets to continue operating despite enforcement efforts. FMI is demanding visible prosecutions, consistent sanctions, and the dismantling of networks profiting from environmental destruction.

FMI also noted that the Community Mining Programme, designed to formalize small-scale mining and reduce galamsey activities, requires urgent strengthening. According to the Institute, inconsistent implementation and governance gaps have limited its effectiveness.

The Institute emphasized that rivers and forest reserves are non-negotiable, asserting that water security and public health cannot be sacrificed for short-term gain. Integrity must underpin enforcement, with protection networks dismantled and authorities held accountable. Communities must be shielded from retaliation, with safe reporting channels in place, while young people need lawful alternatives to illegal mining through employment opportunities and skills development.

FMI proposed a coordinated national approach to address the systemic drivers of galamsey and accelerate environmental restoration. The Institute called for credible investigations and transparent reporting, lawful and non-violent community stewardship, early warning systems, and sustained public education. It urged the creation of green jobs in reclamation, agroforestry, and sustainable agriculture to provide viable alternatives for youth involved in illegal mining. Routine monitoring of water and public health conditions, coupled with swift justice measures such as expedited prosecutions, asset forfeiture, and disruption of illegal supply chains, were also recommended.

The Institute urged government and security agencies to maintain enforcement operations while ensuring transparency and integrity in the process. It called on the judiciary to prioritize environmental crime cases and apply consistent sanctions, while traditional authorities were encouraged to enforce community prohibitions and reject any benefits linked to illegal mining.

“Ghana’s natural heritage is not disposable. Impunity must end, and the networks enabling environmental destruction must be exposed, prosecuted, and dismantled,” the statement emphasized.

The press release was signed by Rev. Prof. Paul Frimpong-Manso, President of FMI, and Dr. George Manful, FMI Thematic Chair for Environment and Sustainability. The Institute indicated its readiness to engage with media outlets, participate in panel discussions, and provide briefings to promote awareness and accountability.