The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey has cautioned that efforts to curb illegal mining, widely known as galamsey, are faltering despite what it says was an encouraging initial approach by the government.

In a statement dated March 28, the group said its review of on-the-ground developments, together with comments from public officials, suggests that there has been minimal real progress in addressing the problem.

It voiced strong concern that the situation is worsening, pointing to the ongoing destruction of rivers and forest reserves, which it warns poses significant threats to both public health and the environment.

The coalition has therefore urged John Dramani Mahama to act swiftly and decisively, citing what it described as increasing lawlessness among some enforcement bodies and government actors.

According to the group, illegal mining continues unabated even in areas declared as protected “red zones,” with more forest reserves being affected and large tracts of land already degraded.

It also raised alarm over contamination of key rivers such as the Ankobra River, Birim River, Pra River, and Ofin River, insisting that illegal miners continue to operate in these waterways with limited intervention.

The coalition further criticised what it described as ineffective enforcement of existing regulations, highlighting the absence of punitive action against some local authorities and delays in probing alleged political links to galamsey.

It is calling for urgent measures, including a suspension of small-scale mining licences, intensified enforcement operations, and accountability for officials found to be involved.

Additionally, the group is demanding greater openness, including the regular release of water quality data, and increased funding for institutions such as the Forestry Commission and the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat.

The coalition warned that without immediate, time-bound interventions backed by strong political commitment, the fight against illegal mining risks failing to achieve its objectives.