‘Deal with Galamsey, the Situation is Urgent’ – National House of Chiefs President Urges Mahama

‘Deal with Galamsey, the Situation is Urgent’ – National House of Chiefs President to Mahama

The President of the National House of Chiefs, Ogyeahohoo Yaw Gyebi II, has issued a strong call to action to former President and NDC flagbearer John Dramani Mahama, urging him to make the fight against illegal mining (galamsey) a top national priority should he return to office in 2025.

Describing the ongoing galamsey menace as an “urgent threat to Ghana’s survival,” Ogyeahohoo Gyebi II stressed that the environmental, social, and economic consequences of the activity have reached a breaking point.

A Dire Warning from Traditional Leadership

Speaking at a high-level engagement with political leaders and stakeholders in Kumasi, the respected traditional ruler warned that many water bodies, forests, and farming lands have already been destroyed — and the destruction continues daily.

“Our rivers are dead or dying. Our farmlands are poisoned. This is not just a problem for government; it’s a national crisis. We are appealing to you, President Mahama, to deal with this urgently if elected,” he declared.

He further called on traditional authorities to reject any form of complicity or silence in the face of illegal mining, warning that history would judge leaders who stood by.

Mahama Responds with Commitment

In response, John Mahama acknowledged the gravity of the situation and pledged to implement firm but fair policies to combat galamsey. He emphasized the need for a collaborative approach involving traditional leaders, security forces, and community sensitization.

“We cannot continue to sacrifice our environment for short-term gains. I am committed to reviewing the mining sector, introducing more sustainable practices, and ensuring that laws are enforced impartially,” Mahama stated.

He also criticized the current administration’s handling of the issue, alleging that despite promises, illegal mining has flourished under weak enforcement and political interference.

Galamsey: A Deepening Crisis

Illegal small-scale mining has become one of the most contentious and destructive issues in Ghana, leading to polluted rivers, degraded forests, and violent clashes in mining areas. The menace persists despite numerous task forces, government bans, and policy interventions.

Many experts believe that without political will and the cooperation of local chiefs and community leaders, the galamsey fight will remain a losing battle.

National Stakeholders Watching

The statement from the National House of Chiefs is significant, as traditional rulers play a vital role in local governance and land administration. Their influence could determine the success of future anti-galamsey efforts.

Environmental groups, civil society organizations, and faith-based institutions have welcomed the Chiefs’ intervention and are calling for a bipartisan national strategy to tackle the issue.

Conclusion

As Ghana heads toward the 2024 general elections, illegal mining remains one of the country’s most pressing concerns. With this latest call from the nation’s traditional leadership, pressure is mounting on all political actors — especially former President Mahama — to offer a clear and credible path toward ending the galamsey crisis once and for all.