President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his administration’s firm commitment to eliminating illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, pledging to confront the menace without fear or favour while calling on all Ghanaians to help protect the country’s rivers and forests.

Addressing a graduation ceremony at the Ghana Military Academy on January 30, President Mahama said the government has intensified security and enforcement measures to halt the destruction of forest reserves and water bodies caused by illegal mining activities.

He disclosed that several forest reserves and major rivers have been designated as security zones, with permanent military bases established in strategic areas to deter offenders and sustain enforcement efforts.

“Forests and river bodies have been declared security zones. Permanent military bases have been established, and offenders have been arrested and are being prosecuted,” the President stated.

According to him, these interventions are beginning to yield positive results, as some previously polluted rivers are showing signs of recovery.

“Rivers such as the Pra, Ankobra and Offin are gradually recovering,” he noted.

President Mahama stressed that the fight against galamsey remains a top national priority and will not be compromised under any circumstances.

“Let me be clear, illegal mining will continue to be confronted decisively and without fear or favour,” he said.

However, he emphasised that lasting success will require broad national support, describing the campaign against illegal mining as a shared responsibility that extends beyond government action alone.

“This fight requires national unity. It is a moral, civic and generational duty, and I call on all Ghanaians to stand together to restore and protect our land,” the President urged.

He reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to restore Ghana’s degraded environment and safeguard the country’s natural resources for the benefit of both present and future generations.