Environmental activist Miracles Aboagye has described the government’s recent admission of the scale of illegal small-scale mining, commonly known as galamsey, as hypocritical, arguing that acknowledgment alone does not equate to action.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Aboagye criticized authorities for seeking public praise for admitting the widespread environmental degradation caused by illegal mining, warning that recognition without concrete measures to curb the activity is meaningless. “It is one thing to admit that galamsey is destroying our rivers, forests, and farmlands, but it is another to take decisive steps to stop it. Applauding this admission is like celebrating a diagnosis without treatment,” she said.
The activist highlighted that illegal mining continues to pose significant threats to Ghana’s ecosystems, water bodies, and local communities, despite repeated government pledges to enforce mining regulations. “Communities are still suffering from polluted rivers, degraded lands, and lost livelihoods. The people want action, not rhetoric,” she added.
Aboagye also emphasized the need for a holistic approach that includes stricter enforcement of mining laws, rehabilitation of affected areas, and sustainable livelihood programs for former galamsey operators. She warned that without accountability and follow-through, government statements risk being perceived as mere political gestures designed to appease the public.
Civil society organizations have increasingly urged the government to move beyond acknowledgments and implement policies that effectively reduce illegal mining, noting that past crackdowns have often been inconsistent or short-lived. Aboagye’s remarks echo these concerns, calling for sustained, transparent efforts to protect Ghana’s natural resources.
“This is about the future of our environment and communities. Recognition of the problem is just the first step; real progress will be measured by actions on the ground, not words from podiums,” Aboagye concluded.
The government has not yet responded directly to Aboagye’s criticism, but officials have previously stated that tackling galamsey remains a top priority, citing ongoing operations and collaboration with security agencies to curb illegal mining activities.
