Fight Against Galamsey

Govt to Deploy Soldiers Permanently in 44 Galamsey Hotspots – Kwakye Ofosu

September 17, 2025

Government has announced a new strategy to intensify the fight against illegal mining (galamsey) by stationing soldiers permanently in 44 identified hotspots, Minister of State in charge of Government Communications and MP for Abura Asebu Kwamankese, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has revealed.

The move comes amid mounting public concern over the destruction of forests, farmlands, and water bodies, with some groups urging the declaration of a national emergency. President John Dramani Mahama, however, has rejected such calls, insisting that the situation does not warrant it.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s Face to Face programme on Tuesday, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu said the new approach departs from previous short-term interventions.

“All the 44 areas that are threatened by galamsey, there is going to be a permanent military presence,” he stated.

He explained that unlike in the past, where security forces would conduct raids and later withdraw, the revised plan will ensure continuous security to deter illegal miners.

The strategy, he added, will also extend to the protection of the country’s major rivers.

“All the rivers we have will have permanent military presence,” Mr. Kwakye Ofosu said.

The announcement follows intensified debates over the effectiveness of current anti-galamsey measures and growing pressure on government to take bolder action to protect the environment.