President Mahama to Meet with Civil Society Organizations to Discuss Galamsey Crisis

President John Dramani Mahama is set to host a high-level meeting with civil society organizations (CSOs) and key stakeholders today to discuss sustainable solutions to the devastating effects of illegal mining, known as galamsey, in Ghana. The meeting aims to bring together influential groups to share perspectives and propose strategies to complement the government’s efforts in curbing the menace.

The decision to engage CSOs has received mixed reactions, with some welcoming the initiative as a constructive step and others expressing skepticism about its potential effectiveness. Dr. Sammy Ayeh, Presidential Aide, emphasized that the government considers the fight against galamsey a shared responsibility, highlighting the importance of collaboration with faith-based and civil society organizations.

The meeting will bring together a diverse range of stakeholders, including:

Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Ghana

Christian Council of Ghana

Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council

Office of the Chief Imam

Ghana Muslim Mission

Arocha Ghana

IMANI Ghana

The galamsey crisis has been declared a human rights emergency by the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR), citing political complicity and compromised security enforcement. The commission has urged the government to consider declaring key mining regions as security zones to allow for decisive action. Some critics, like the Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey, have slammed President Mahama for refusing to declare a state of emergency in areas affected by illegal mining.

The meeting is expected to provide a platform for stakeholders to share perspectives and propose strategies to complement the government’s efforts. Dr. Ayeh emphasized that the government has made significant progress in addressing the issue, including operational and legislative measures to repeal LI 2462, which had become a bone of contention.

The outcome of the meeting is expected to shape the government’s approach to addressing the galamsey crisis.