President Nana Akufo-Addo has openly acknowledged the significant challenges his administration faced in combating illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, during his tenure. Speaking during his final State of the Nation Address on January 3, 2025, he highlighted the difficulty and unpopularity of this decision, especially given the political and social implications. The President recalled his 2017 inaugural speech, where he pledged to address the environmental devastation caused by galamsey. He admitted that he fully understood the enormity of this commitment and even recognized the risks it posed to his presidency. Despite these challenges, he emphasized the critical importance of safeguarding Ghana’s environment, particularly its lands and water bodies, for future generations. Akufo-Addo reiterated that his determination stemmed from a deep conviction about protecting the nation’s natural resources, even if it meant sacrificing political goodwill.
The President also reflected on the political cost of this initiative, noting that the fight against galamsey directly influenced the results of the 2020 elections. He explained that the stance taken by his government on illegal mining led to a loss of several parliamentary seats for his party, which eventually resulted in a hung parliament. This situation, he said, posed significant obstacles to the implementation of key policies during his second term. Nonetheless, he expressed optimism about the growing support for the anti-galamsey movement, especially as more advocates emerged ahead of the 2024 elections. Akufo-Addo welcomed this shift in public opinion, stating that it underscored the importance of collective efforts to preserve Ghana’s environment. He emphasized that the fight was not against mining itself but against unsustainable practices that jeopardize the nation's ecological future.
In his address, President Akufo-Addo also highlighted the strides made by his administration in the mining, forestry, and land management sectors. He proudly noted that these efforts had positioned Ghana as the leading gold producer on the African continent, surpassing South Africa, with a record-breaking production of 4 million ounces in the previous year. While celebrating this achievement, he stressed the need for responsible mining practices that balance economic gains with environmental conservation. Looking ahead, the President reaffirmed his commitment to protecting Ghana’s natural resources, urging Ghanaians to prioritize sustainable development for the benefit of future generations. He concluded by expressing pride in his administration's accomplishments and his belief that the bold policies implemented during his tenure would leave a lasting positive impact on the nation.
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