The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference has issued a strong condemnation of illegal mining, urging President John Dramani Mahama to declare a state of emergency as environmental destruction escalates despite record gold export revenues. The bishops warn that galamsey (illegal mining) poses a significant threat to national security and the survival of millions, criticizing the president for focusing too much on economic benefits while neglecting the accompanying environmental devastation.
Between January and August 2025, Ghana’s small-scale mining sector generated 66.7 tonnes of gold exports worth approximately $6 billion, surpassing larger-scale operations. However, this economic success is overshadowed by serious ecological destruction, with major rivers becoming contaminated with mercury and toxic effluents. The Ayensu River’s turbidity level is now dangerously high, making water purification impossible, while farmland and forests have been devastated.
The bishops also highlighted the social and governance crises tied to illegal mining, accusing politicians and security personnel of enabling corrupt practices for personal gain. This corruption poses risks to Ghana’s democratic foundations, and the bishops have voiced their alarm over Mahama’s refusal to declare a state of emergency, labeling it as “profoundly troubling.”
Their statement calls for urgent measures, including curfews in mining areas and dismantling corrupt networks. They propose creating regulated small-scale mining zones and launching afforestation programs to provide employment alternatives. Additionally, the bishops address the human toll of illegal mining, emphasizing its detrimental effects on children and community health.
Framing the galamsey crisis as not only an environmental issue but also a matter of national character, they urge Ghanaians to resist the temptation of quick wealth that harms future generations. As pressure mounts on Mahama, the government must address the contradiction of celebrating record gold profits while managing the resulting environmental crisis.
