President John Dramani Mahama has commended Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah and anti-illegal mining task forces for their progressive efforts in combating illegal mining (galamsey).
Speaking at the 77th Annual New Year School held at the University of Ghana on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, President Mahama said that the development path must be climate smart and environmentally responsible while implementing sustainable mining practices.
President Mahama commended the “Minister for Land and Natural Resources in the fight against galamsey, which has so entered the fabric of our people, adding that it’s not an easy fight among communities who have mobilized to attack you know the task force when they have known to enforce the ban on illegal mining.”
President Mahama recounted his recent visit to the Crown Forest where some part of the River Ayensu is affected by illegal mining activities.
“Why I raised it is that when you go to where they have the animals, you cross a stream and before we cross the bridge, I ask them which river is this, they said it was the Ayensu River, and they said if you had come here 6 months ago, the water was the color of coffee.
“This is now the color of light milo and now it’s getting better and so we appreciate the work of NAIMOS and the river guards,” he cited.
The President underscored the role of NAIMOS and river guards in safeguarding water bodies, urging the team to continue and strengthen their efforts to safeguard our water bodies.
Source; Ernest Kelvin Okanta
