Dr Kwabena Nyarko Otoo, Deputy Secretary-General of the Trades Union Congress Ghana, has called on the President to take a tougher stance against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, including enforcing a complete ban on mining in forest reserves and river bodies.
Speaking on Saturday, March 21, Dr Otoo voiced concern over what he sees as a lack of decisive leadership in addressing the environmental and economic damage caused by the practice.
He urged the government to draw a firm line, insisting that mining activities must be strictly prohibited in ecologically sensitive areas.
“I am urging the President to ensure that nobody mines in forest reserves and nobody mines in river bodies,” he said. “They can mine in other areas, but not these two.”
Dr Otoo stressed that protecting these zones is critical to preserving Ghana’s natural environment and safeguarding water resources for both current and future generations.
The labour leader also expressed surprise at what he described as a lack of strong commitment from the President during recent discussions on the issue.
“I was surprised sitting in front of the President,” he noted, suggesting that some of the remarks made gave the impression of resignation rather than resolve.
According to him, the consequences of galamsey are far too severe to allow for hesitation or compromise.
“The effects of galamsey are too dire for the present and the future of this country,” he warned, adding that the situation demands urgent and decisive leadership.
Beyond the environmental toll, Dr Otoo pointed out that illegal mining also threatens the economy by undermining sustainable livelihoods and putting pressure on sectors that depend on natural resources.
He maintained that the responsibility to stop galamsey ultimately lies with the highest levels of government.
“The President must lead in stopping it,” he said, calling for stricter enforcement of existing laws and a more uncompromising approach to dealing with illegal miners.