Ghana Chamber of Mines CEO warns of escalating galamsey crisis, urges urgent action under President Mahama
Ken Ashigbey, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, has expressed serious concerns about the expansion of illegal mining, known as galamsey, across Ghana. Speaking on ChannelOne TV on August 31, 2026, Ashigbey highlighted that galamsey activities have spread to new areas previously unaffected two years prior. He noted a worrying increase in the audacity of illegal miners, citing instances where military personnel, including a colonel, were attacked and police officers had their weapons confiscated. Ashigbey emphasized that President John Dramani Mahama's current term presents the best opportunity to combat galamsey, as the President will not be seeking re-election, leaving less than two years for decisive action before he becomes a 'lame duck'. The Chamber of Mines advocates for environmentally friendly mining practices and calls for strict enforcement of laws against all individuals involved in illegal mining, including politicians and traditional authorities. Ashigbey stressed the need to hold Municipal Chief Executives, District Chief Executives, chiefs, and police commanders accountable in affected communities.
