The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has made a passionate appeal for urgent and decisive action to tackle illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey
He warned that the menace is becoming a deeply entrenched mafia-like operation threatening the very fabric of Ghana’s existence.
Speaking at the 29th GJA awards at the Manhyia Palace on Friday November 8, 2025, the Asantehene described galamsey as an issue “dear to everybody’s heart,” stressing that the destruction of lands and water bodies cannot be allowed to continue.
“We have to be very careful because it’s destroying this country. It’s becoming more of a mafia, if you are not very careful, it’s going to engulf all of us,” he warned.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II questioned why successive governments have failed to act decisively on the issue, suggesting political fear and the desire for votes are behind the silence.
“I was asking, how many people would vote for a party or government that refuses to take a firm decision on these people? Is it politics? Is it just about votes?” he asked.
“Don’t let them vote for you, but take the right decision. Save the environment, save the people, save our health.”
Drawing on his own ancestral history, the Asantehene noted that gold mining has existed in his lineage for centuries without destroying nature.
“My forefathers mined gold over 400 years ago. They never destroyed water bodies or forests. We still have those gold reserves because they were mined responsibly,” he said.
He further challenged traditional leaders, especially those in mining-endemic areas like Amansie, to rise against the threat.
“I’ve told the chiefs that if your land is being messed up like this, and you say you don’t have arms to stop them because they are well-armed, then we are all complicit,” he added.
Asantehene dismissed claims that illegal mining is a matter of employment, arguing that there are alternative livelihoods that do not destroy the environment.
“It’s not about employment; it’s about leadership and taking decisive action,” he insisted.
While acknowledging President John Mahama, who was present at the event, assurances to tackle illegal mining, Otumfuo said he will be monitoring closely.
“The President gave a firm assurance, and I’ll be following to see how best we can all take it up and do it,” he concluded.
Story by Francis Appiah
