Ghana Lands Minister: Galamsey Prosecution Challenges Remain

• The government's anti-galamsey campaign has resulted in the arrest of 258 suspects and seizure or immobilization of thousands of pieces of mining equipment.
• Prosecution rates remain a major concern, with many suspects still awaiting trial or facing uncertain outcomes.
• Approximately 8,900 hectares of forest reserves have been degraded through illegal mining and other activities.

The challenge we are having is not the arrest. It is the prosecution.

While the government's efforts to combat illegal mining in Ghana have yielded impressive numbers, with 258 suspects arrested and thousands of pieces of equipment seized or immobilized, a closer look at the data reveals a more complex picture. The real challenge lies not in making arrests, but in ensuring that those arrested face justice in court. This is where the effectiveness of the anti-galamsey campaign is put to the test. According to Lands Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the prosecution of galamsey cases remains a major concern, with many suspects still awaiting trial or facing uncertain outcomes.

A review of the Ministry's enforcement figures reveals a staggering array of equipment seized or immobilized in operations targeting illegal mining in forest reserves. As of July 2026, 200 excavators had been seized and 34 immobilized, while 1,469 pumping machines, 950 changfan machines, and numerous other items were also confiscated or rendered inoperable. But what do these numbers really mean? Are they a testament to the government's commitment to tackling galamsey, or simply a reflection of the scale of the problem?

The impact of galamsey on Ghana's forest reserves is nothing short of devastating. According to Minister Buah, approximately 8,900 hectares of forest have been completely degraded through illegal mining and other destructive activities. Nine forest reserves were identified as among the worst affected, with some areas becoming inaccessible due to the activities of illegal miners. The restoration of these degraded areas will require substantial resources, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive approach to addressing the issue.

Lawyers and compliance officers should watch for the government's efforts to improve prosecution rates in galamsey cases, as this could impact enforcement operations and ultimately determine the effectiveness of the anti-galamsey drive.

Source: Original reporting via Myjoyonline.com/IMANI