The National House of Chiefs has called on the government to actively involve traditional authorities in the fight against illegal mining (galamsey), warning that the menace is rapidly escalating and could pose a serious security threat if left unchecked.

Speaking at a meeting of the House in Kumasi on Wednesday, December 18, 2025, the President of the National House of Chiefs, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, said galamsey activities had spread across the country and were becoming increasingly difficult to contain.

“Galamsey is all over the country. If we don't take the necessary steps, we're going to lose that to them,” he cautioned.

Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II expressed concern that illegal miners were gradually organising themselves into armed groups, which could significantly undermine national security.

He warned that if decisive action was not taken, security agencies could eventually struggle to flush out galamsey operators, likening the situation to the organised drug gangs found in parts of South America.

To effectively address the problem, he called for a change in the regulatory framework that would empower chiefs as custodians of the land, while also equipping them with the necessary resources to combat illegal mining.

According to him, the widespread presence of traditional leaders in every village and town positions them to play a crucial role in curbing galamsey activities.

Ogyeahoho also highlighted the severe environmental and public health consequences of illegal mining, referencing concerns raised by medical professionals about contaminated vegetables and food crops.

In addition, he appealed for increased financial support for the National House of Chiefs to enable it to carry out its mandate more effectively.

He revealed that the House had been informed of the government’s intention to increase their allowance by 300 per cent but noted that no official communication had yet been received, urging authorities to fast-track the process.