Galamsey fight difficult but we will not retreat, relent or surrender — Lands Minister

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has admitted that the government’s efforts to combat illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, face significant challenges but insisted that the fight remains a top priority.

Speaking during the Government Accountability Series on Wednesday, July 15, Mr Buah described illegal mining as one of Ghana’s most serious environmental threats, warning of its devastating impact on forests, water bodies and degraded lands.

He said although the scale and complexity of illegal mining activities across the country make the fight difficult, government remains committed to restoring affected areas, protecting natural resources and ensuring the sustainable management of the country’s mineral wealth.

According to the Minister, tackling galamsey requires a collective effort involving state institutions, security agencies, local communities and other stakeholders.

He stressed that safeguarding Ghana’s environment is a shared national responsibility, adding that future generations must inherit a country with protected forests, clean rivers and responsibly managed natural resources.

Mr Buah warned that individuals and groups involved in activities that destroy the environment would continue to face action, emphasising that the era of allowing environmental destruction without consequences is over.

“The fight against illegal mining is a defining environmental battle that our generation must fight. Our rivers are not for sale, our forests are not expendable, our mineral wealth is a sacred inheritance that we have a duty to protect. The era of impunity is over, and the government will continue to pursue everyone who profits from the destruction of our environment,” he stated.

He acknowledged the difficulties associated with the anti-galamsey campaign but expressed confidence that sustained efforts would yield results.

“The battle against illegal mining is difficult but the Ghanaian spirit is stronger. We will not retreat, we will not relent and we will not surrender, but we shall reclaim our rivers, restore our forests, protect our natural wealth and secure a greener, stronger and more prosperous Ghana for posterity,” Mr Buah added.

The Minister said government would continue to implement measures aimed at reclaiming degraded mining areas, restoring water bodies and protecting Ghana’s environmental heritage.