The Patriotic Journalists Against Galamsey (PAJAG) has commended President John Dramani Mahama for convening a high-level meeting with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) aimed at reinforcing the government’s campaign against illegal mining, widely known as galamsey.

The meeting, according to PAJAG, marks a significant step toward fostering inclusive and coordinated action to protect Ghana’s environment and natural resources.

The organisation described the initiative as evidence of President Mahama’s commitment to collaborative governance and sustainable environmental management.

In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Nana Otu Darko, PAJAG hailed the engagement as a “beacon of hope” in the protracted battle against galamsey, which has severely affected forests, water bodies, and public health across the country.

“President Mahama’s proactive dialogue with CSOs is not just a meeting; it is a clarion call for collective action,” Darko noted. “By amplifying the voices of frontline advocates, the President is demonstrating that the fight against galamsey is everyone’s responsibility.”

The group highlighted three major pillars of the President’s renewed strategy:

Inclusive Stakeholder Engagement: The platform allows CSOs to share practical insights and recommendations, ensuring that government policies are grounded in community realities and expert input.

Enhanced Enforcement: PAJAG welcomed the President’s focus on improving inter-agency coordination and community monitoring mechanisms to curb illegal mining and reclaim degraded lands.

Sustainable Livelihoods: The discussions emphasised creating economic alternatives for affected communities, promoting sustainable mining and aligning with Ghana’s long-term development goals.

Since its establishment, PAJAG has been a leading force in the media campaign against galamsey, leveraging investigative journalism and public education to raise awareness and drive reform.

The group reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the government’s renewed efforts and urged all citizens to join the national fight to preserve the country’s environment for future generations.