The government of Ghana has intensified efforts to combat illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, following widespread environmental destruction affecting the country’s rivers, water bodies and forest reserves.
As part of the renewed anti-galamsey campaign, the government has organised the maiden National Conference for Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) on illegal small-scale mining.
The conference was held on Monday, November 2, 2026, in Kumasi, the Ashanti Regional capital, bringing together local government leaders to discuss strategies for addressing illegal mining across the country.
The Ashanti Region was selected for the meeting because mining remains a major economic activity in the area, providing livelihoods for many residents while also presenting significant environmental and regulatory challenges.
Lands Minister Calls for Collective Action Against Illegal Mining
Addressing participants, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, highlighted the devastating environmental consequences of illegal mining and the extensive damage caused to Ghana’s natural resources over the years.
He urged all Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives to take an active role in the fight against galamsey, stressing that tackling illegal mining requires a coordinated national effort.
The minister explained that the conference was organised to address challenges within Ghana’s small-scale mining sector, particularly illegal mining activities threatening the country’s environmental sustainability.
He further emphasised that the gathering should not be treated as an ordinary administrative meeting but as a platform for shared responsibility, stronger collaboration and decisive action.
The conference forms part of the government’s broader strategy to strengthen local government involvement in the fight against illegal mining, protect Ghana’s forest reserves, restore polluted water bodies and promote responsible small-scale mining practices.
Source: newsthemegh.com