There’s Political Will to Fight Galamsey – Defence Minister Assures

The Minister for Defence, Dominic Nitiwul, has reiterated the government's firm resolve to wage an uncompromising war against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, stating that the political will to fight the environmental crisis "has never been stronger."

Speaking at a media engagement in Accra on Monday, the Minister declared that the Akufo-Addo-led administration is fully committed to restoring the integrity of Ghana’s water bodies, forest reserves, and agricultural lands, which have been ravaged by years of unregulated mining.

“We are not only aware of the damage galamsey is causing to our environment and public health, but we are also fully committed — politically and institutionally — to rooting it out,” Mr. Nitiwul stated. “There is no ambiguity about our stance. We are putting boots on the ground, tightening enforcement, and exposing the networks behind this menace.”

Mr. Nitiwul revealed that the Ghana Armed Forces have been given expanded operational authority under the “Operation Halt II” initiative, with renewed logistical support and intelligence backing to dismantle illegal mining sites, arrest offenders, and recover confiscated machinery.

In recent months, the government has faced growing public pressure and criticism from civil society groups, academia, and environmental activists over its perceived slow response to the galamsey crisis. Many argue that despite several military operations, illegal mining activities continue to thrive in major riverine areas like the Pra, Offin, Ankobra, and Birim.

Responding to these concerns, the Defence Minister said the battle is a long one, but “progress is being made behind the scenes,” especially with new surveillance technologies and inter-agency coordination.

“We understand the frustrations of the public, but this is not a war you win overnight,” he emphasized. “This is a multi-dimensional fight involving crime syndicates, political interference, and deep-seated poverty. But I can assure Ghanaians — we are not giving up.”

He also disclosed that several foreign nationals, including Chinese and West African nationals involved in illegal mining operations, have been arrested and are facing prosecution, with assets frozen or under investigation.

Environmental groups such as A Rocha Ghana and the Ghana Water Company have welcomed the renewed assurance but have urged the government to match words with decisive, transparent action — especially by cracking down on politically connected individuals enabling the industry.

As the country edges toward the 2024 elections, the government's approach to tackling galamsey may prove a decisive issue in public perception, with both the ruling NPP and opposition NDC pledging stronger anti-mining policies.