Presiding over the case, the court ruled that Mr Bissue’s request failed to provide sufficient justification for the travel.

The judgment highlighted that the submitted flight ticket was purchased after the application was filed, while the school admission letter presented was merely provisional.

The prosecution strongly opposed the motion, arguing there was “no genuine intention” behind the travel plans and that the request appeared to be an attempt to circumvent the judicial process.

With the application dismissed, the court adjourned proceedings to May 29, 2025, for continuation of the trial.

Mr Bissue remains restricted from international travel as the case progresses.

Charles Bissue, a former Secretary to the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM), is facing corruption-related charges brought by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).

The case stems from investigations into illegal mining activities, with allegations of misconduct during his tenure.

In November 2024, the Human Rights Court dismissed the final in a series of suits filed by Charles Bissue aimed at preventing the Office of the Special Prosecutor from arresting, investigating, or charging him.

Mr Bissue had previously obtained a 10-day ex parte injunction restraining the OSP from arresting him, alleging that the warrant issued was unlawfully procured and intended to harass him.

He also sought a declaration that a notice marking him as wanted was void.

In its judgment, the Court found Bissue’s claims entirely unfounded, stating there was no evidence to support his allegations. The central question was whether an arrest warrant had indeed been issued by the Kaneshie District Court for OSP against Bissue.

The Court ruled that it was Bissue’s responsibility to provide proof of such a warrant, which he failed to do.

The Judge concluded that no warrant had been issued and dismissed the claim as a figment of the imagination of Bissue and awarded costs of GHC10,000 against him.

This ruling cleared the path for the OSP to continue its investigations into Mr Bissue’s involvement with the defunct IMCIM and in another separate case pursue charges related to allegations of corruption as depicted in the Tiger Eye P.I. documentary Galamsey Fraud Part 1.

ALSO READ:

• Charles Bissue responds to OSP’s criminal charges

• Charles Bissue and Andy Owusu granted GH₵200k bail each

Speaking at the inauguration of the GPP II Implementation Committee at the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition on Monday, Dr. Forson said Ghana’s over-reliance on expensive liquid fuels to power its plants has become unsustainable, costing the nation more than $1 billion annually.

“Without the Atuabo Gas Plant, Ghana would have been in deep trouble. Today, we face a similar opportunity to secure our future,” he stated.

According to him, the new gas processing plant will save the country close to $500 million every two years—enough to pay for the project within a short period—while creating over 1,000 direct and indirect jobs.

The Finance Minister joined the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, to inaugurate the technical committee tasked with overseeing the project’s implementation.

Dr. Forson charged the committee, chaired by the Deputy Minister for Energy, to deliver a comprehensive implementation plan within four weeks, stressing that the country could no longer afford delays in critical infrastructure delivery.

“This is too important for our country’s welfare and economic stability. Enough of the bureaucracy; let’s get it done,” he said.

For his part, Energy Minister John Jinapor emphasised the urgent need for the project, lamenting that little progress had been made in developing additional gas processing infrastructure since the commissioning of the Atuabo Gas Plant.

He noted that Ghana’s growing gas deficit has left the country dependent on costly imported liquid fuels, increasing pressure on public finances and threatening energy security.

Once completed, GPP II is expected to improve the supply of natural gas for power generation and industrial use, reducing the country’s reliance on liquid fuels and easing foreign exchange pressures. It is also projected to position Ghana as a regional energy hub over the medium to long term.

At the ceremony, two key committees were inaugurated—a Technical Implementation Committee and a Communications and Social License Committee, the latter chaired by Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Hajia Shamima Muslim.

Industry analysts have welcomed the move, noting that the successful delivery of GPP II could help stabilise power generation costs, improve reliability, and significantly boost investor confidence in Ghana’s energy sector.

Implementation Committee for Second Gas Processing Plant inaugurated

Akoase Cocoa farmers clash with galamsey operators over destroyed seedlings

The farmers, supported by Yonkopa Cocoa Company Ltd in Akoase near Nkawkaw, say the activities of these miners are threatening their livelihoods.

Several cocoa plantations have reportedly been destroyed, with some farmers arrested and detained after confronting the miners.

In some cases, the galamsey operators have filed complaints against the farmers, resulting in police action.

The farmers are accusing the illegal miners of robbing them of their lifelong investments and the legacies they hope to pass on to future generations.

They also lament that the unregulated mining activities—some of which take place near residential areas—have led to tragic incidents, including the reported death of a child who fell into an abandoned mining pit.

The affected cocoa farmers are urgently calling on the government, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, and local opinion leaders to intervene and halt the destruction.

They warn that failure to act may force them to take the law into their own hands in a desperate bid to protect their lands and livelihoods.

The farmers are demanding immediate intervention and stricter enforcement of laws to preserve Ghana’s cocoa sector from further harm.

ALSO READ:

• Mahama gives update on Vice President’s health

• Kwakye Ofosu confirms Vice President Opoku-Agyemang is in good health

Speaking on JoyNews’ News Desk on Monday, 12 May, Mr. Donkor described the town as “a crime scene,” citing blatant violations of Ghana’s Minerals and Mining Act, which prohibits mining activities within human settlements and within 100 metres of public roads.

Despite these legal restrictions, residents — both landlords and tenants — are said to be complicit in, or at the very least aware of, illegal mining operations that have hollowed out large swathes of the town’s foundation.

“These are landlords and tenants in action. They know the repercussions; they are aware,” Mr. Donkor said.

He added: “They are the same people who blocked this particular road because they fear that if any heavy-duty vehicle passes that street, it could cave in.”

Perhaps most shocking is Mr. Donkor’s revelation that in some Konongo Odumase homes, the entrances to mine shafts are located inside bedrooms.

“If you see somebody entering a house in Odumase and you think that he is going to sleep or something, he is going down a pit,” he explained. “There are many of these houses like that.”

The journalist warned that the town is essentially built on a fragile foundation, with numerous underground tunnels threatening the structural integrity of buildings and roads. He cautioned that any significant tremor or ground movement could trigger a catastrophic collapse, endangering hundreds of lives.

Despite the clear danger and legal breaches, Mr. Donkor lamented the apparent inaction of authorities.

“Unfortunately, this is not a crime in the eyes of the police in Odumase,” he said. “Many of them know about this. They turn a blind eye to it. No arrests have been made. No attempts have been made to even stop this practice.”

Efforts by JoyNews to speak with the local chief on the matter were unsuccessful. According to Mr. Donkor, he was repeatedly told the chief was unavailable and unwilling to comment.

“Odumase is sitting on a ticking time bomb,” Mr. Donkor concluded. “If there is any major shake, we are bound to witness a major disaster in that town.”

ALSO READ:

• Galamsey: Ghana loses 44 forest reserves, over 5,252 hectares destroyed

• Galamsey: Forestry Commission demands military presence to reclaim Jimirah forest

The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has said 44 forest reserves out of 288 in the country have been degraded, while over 5,252 hectares have been lost to illegal mining (galamsey).

He explained that river turbidity levels exceeded 5,000 Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTU), far beyond the permissible 500 NTU, while toxic chemicals such as mercury and cyanide further endangered ecosystems and communities.

Mr Buah revealed this in a speech delivered on his behalf at the closing ceremony of the 4th Annual Transformational Dialogue on Small-scale Mining, organised by the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) in Fiapre, Bono Region, last Thursday.

The two-day dialogue was held under the theme: “Eliminating Illegal Mining in Ghana. The Will and the Bill.”

Data alarming, arrests

The minister said the government alone could not eradicate galamsey. “It requires the collective will of communities, industries, stakeholders, traditional leaders and environmental advocates,” he said.

Mr Buah said the data was alarming. Updating the gathering on the fight against galamsey, he revealed 150 excavators, five bulldozers and weapons had been confiscated, while 71 persons had been arrested.

Mr Buah said that due to enforcement, seven of nine previously inaccessible forest reserves had been cleared.

He said despite past interventions, illegal mining persisted, fuelled by weak political will, inconsistent enforcement and complicity at various levels of governance.

Mr Buah said other factors were security gaps, inadequate geological data, delay in prosecutions, foreign infiltration, greed and complicity among some politicians, traditional leaders and citizens.

Other issues, he mentioned, were the use of armed gangs by illegal miners to intimidate and resist enforcement and the unregulated equipment importation, such as excavators and other machinery.

Systemic change

Mr Buah said eradicating illegal mining demanded more than just laws, explaining that it required political will, collective action and systemic change.

He said the current government was resolute in its mission to eradicate the destructive practice and called for  collective action to eliminate the menace.

Mr Buah called for the strengthening of legal frameworks to ensure robust enforcement within the community, economic alternatives, and transparent governance to uphold ethical standards across the sector.

He said the government had adopted some strategies to facilitate a robust mining sector.

Mr Buah mentioned a licensing regime reform, where new licences would be issued at the district level with the involvement of traditional authorities and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Revoke licences

He said the government had revoked all post-December 2024 licences due to irregularities and replaced the Community Mining Scheme with a Cooperative Mining Scheme.

Mr Buah said excavators were now geo-tagged and monitored 24/7; and non-compliance triggers remote immobilisation.

He said all excavators imported into the country would be registered and tracked while those already in existence would be registered.

Mr Buah said the government had enhanced a more robust joint task force, made up of the military, police, and the Forestry Commission, to flush out illegal miners.

He urged the public to report illegal activities to eliminate illegal mining and build a sector that thrives on sustainability, equity and national pride.

Dialogue

The dialogue, he said, had not only highlighted the socio-economic contributions of ASM but had also confronted pressing issues such as environmental degradation and regulatory enforcement.

He explained that the ASM sector contributed significantly to the economy, accounting for a third of Ghana’s gold production, employing about three million people, and bolstering rural economies while supporting millions of livelihoods.

“Yet, its potential is undermined by the scourge of galamsey, which ravages our environment, pollutes water bodies and threatens public health,” Mr Buah said.

He said the scourge of galamsey threatened to eclipse the benefits, posing severe environmental, public health, and economic risks.

Erastus received the prestigious award in the category of “Sustainable Environment and Development”, recognising his fearless and persistent reporting on the devastating impact of illegal mining on Ghana’s environment, water bodies, and local communities.

The award ceremony, hosted by the Asantehene at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, brought together leaders from government, civil society, arts, and the media to celebrate individuals and institutions making a lasting impact on national development.

“This recognition is a call to continue telling the difficult stories that matter to our future as a nation,” Erastus told the media.

His investigative reports have sparked national conversations and led to policy discussions on how to combat the rooted menace of ‘galamsey’, earning him accolades and honours over the years.

The Millennium Excellence Awards, established to recognise excellence across various sectors, described Erastus’ work as “instrumental in raising public consciousness and holding authorities accountable in the stewardship of Ghana’s natural resources.”

ALSO READ:

• Repealing L.I. 2462 without enforcement is futile – Erastus Asare Donkor warns

• I fled Ghana ahead of 2024 elections – Erastus

His comments come amid mounting public pressure and a national campaign urging the government to repeal L.I. 2462 — a regulation widely criticized for enabling mining in protected forest reserves.

Speaking at the JoyNews National Dialogue on Repealing L.I. 2462 on Thursday, May 8, Mr. Asare Donkor warned that unless legal reforms are accompanied by strict and consistent enforcement, the country will merely return to the status quo.

“Repealing L.I. 2462 without the requisite, strict enforcement of the laws will just take us back to zero. If we repeal the law today and we are not able to enforce the law very well and prevent the illegalities, then we are back to square one,” he said.

He cited examples of forest reserves such as Offin Shelterbelt, Abrewa ne Nkran, and Subri, where illegal miners, previously flushed out, have returned with excavators to wreak further environmental havoc. “The problem is not just about what the law allows — it’s about the illegal invasion of forest reserves that is already happening, with or without a license,” he added.

“They don’t have any license. They just want to go in there with excavators and destroy the forest for gold. And many of them, the gold goes straight into their pockets — the state doesn’t benefit. No taxes, no revenue. Just destruction.”

Mr. Asare Donkor also drew attention to the staggering environmental cost of illegal mining, stressing the difficulty and expense of land reclamation.

“You know how much it costs to reclaim an acre of land? Millions of dollars — and even then, you can’t fully restore it to its original state. It takes years, if not decades,” he lamented.

He concluded by urging stakeholders to prioritize enforcement mechanisms alongside any legislative changes, warning that without it, Ghana’s forests and water bodies will continue to suffer irreversible damage.

ALSO READ:

• Galamsey: Debate over L.I. 2462 stalls in Parliament amidst Minority objections

• Galamsey: Parliament will review L.I. 2462 once formally presented – Afenyo-Markin

Since the beginning of the year, Forestry Commission officers have been unable to access the area due to threats posed by these heavily armed individuals providing security for the miners.

It has taken military intervention for Commission officials to inspect the damage caused in the forest.

Failed Attempts and Escalation

According to the Nkawie District Manager of the Forestry Commission, Abraham Essel, efforts made in January to remove the illegal miners were thwarted by the presence of weapon-wielding guards.

“We tried to mobilise to come and flush them out, but we realised they were conducting the operations under the protection of thugs who were wielding offensive weapons, and we could not access this place,” he recounted.

At dawn on Thursday, a team of military officers was deployed for an operation. However, by the time they arrived, the miners had fled the area, taking most of their equipment with them. Excavators and other machinery found at the site had been demobilised.

Tracks led the team to eight parked excavators hidden within the Adobewora community.

The Acting Executive Director of the Forestry Commission, Lydia Opoku, and Ashanti Regional Manager Clement Omari supported and joined the operation.

Environmental Devastation

Illegal mining has led to the destruction of vast portions of forest cover. Land has been haphazardly dug up, and vegetation stripped in the search for gold.

“Among the affected areas is a mature plantation owned by Tepa Sawmill, a private company. “They established the plantation so many years ago—a Cinderella Plantation—and the plantation is matured for harvesting,” said Mr Essel.

“The Forestry Commission Headquarters granted us authorisation to value the trees for the company to fell, but we couldn’t access the place because of the illegal miners.” Although a full assessment is yet to be completed, the Commission estimates the affected trees to be worth millions of cedis. Some trees had been harvested, but the majority were reportedly destroyed.

Even more alarming is the damage done to the River Punpuni, which runs through the forest. Once a vital water source for local farmers, the river has now been silted due to the destructive mining activities.

According to Mr Essel, “The whole ecosystem has lost its resilience and health. The activities of the illegal miners are greatly impacting the sustainable forest practices we do.”

Call for a Military Base in the Forest

The military has supported the Forestry Commission in prior operations, including one in February. In total, nine excavators have been confiscated during joint missions, though no arrests have yet been made.

Mr Essel is now calling for a permanent military presence in the area.

“It has gone beyond the Forestry Commission. It has become a security matter because, as a Forest officer, you come to the field, you don’t have a catapult to protect yourself, and these illegal miners are protected by heavily built and weapon-wielding thugs,” he lamented.

“Looking at the gravity of the situation, we will advise or suggest that we have some permanent military presence within this enclave so that at any point in time, there will be their presence on the ground,” he insisted.

Regional Manager Clement Omari, who was part of the forest visit, fully supported the call for a military base.

Appeal to Local Communities

The Commission has also called on local communities, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders to support efforts in protecting the forest reserves.

“We are very surprised that this time round the communities don’t seem to support our cause because the excavators, when they move them, are parked in the communities. The excavators come into the communities at night, and the community members can help us,” Mr Essel said.

Acting Executive Director Lydia Opoku echoed the need for community cooperation, stressing that forest protection is a shared responsibility.

ALSO READ:

• Galamsey could be aiding Bawku conflict — Forestry Commission boss [Audio]

• Tano Anwia’s concession owner teams up with Forestry Commission to combat galamsey

Some argue that because Ghana already struggles to enforce existing environmental and sanitation laws, adding new regulations on plastic food packaging would be pointless. This is a dangerously flawed argument. Weak enforcement is not a reason to give up – it is a reason to strengthen systems.

By that logic, we wouldn’t need any traffic laws because some drivers ignore red lights. Or we wouldn’t punish illegal mining because a few galamsey operators slip through the cracks. No public system is perfect, but failure to enforce should lead to reform, not retreat.

In fact, Ghana already has a foundation to build on. Environmental health officers, local assembly by-laws, and community task forces are in place and can be empowered to monitor and enforce safe food handling practices. The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also have mandates that could be expanded to regulate packaging used for hot consumables.

What’s needed is a targeted, collaborative approach: train and resource market-based health inspectors; introduce low-cost certification schemes for vendors who comply; and engage metropolitan, municipal, and district assemblies (MMDAs) to include food packaging in their sanitation and public health inspections. Additionally, digital platforms can be used to report unsafe practices anonymously, and awards can be given to markets or vendors who lead in safe, eco-conscious food sales.

Ghana’s regulatory capacity will only improve if it is tested, funded, and supported. To do nothing because enforcement is hard is to accept a silent epidemic in the name of bureaucratic comfort.

Cultural Norms Can and Must Evolve

One of the more emotional arguments against regulating plastic packaging is that it’s “part of our way of life.” Indeed, for decades, buying waakye, koko, or gobe in black rubber bags has been a common practice of urban and peri-urban Ghanaian life but culture is not static. What is cultural can be changed especially when it endangers lives.

Consider that at one time, open defecation was normal in many communities; so was child marriage. Smoking indoors, excessive cane punishment in schools, and drink-driving were also widely accepted. Yet, each of these practices have been challenged and redefined through education, legislation, and advocacy. Why? Because people recognised that public health and dignity must evolve with evidence.

The idea that plastic use is too embedded in our culture to change underestimates the Ghanaian people. We are resourceful, adaptive, and capable of positive transformation. It’s not about discarding culture – it’s about refining it in light of irrefutable evidence.

We can begin to reframe safe food packaging as a form of respect for life, for the body, and for the environment. Community leaders, faith leaders, teachers, and artists all have a role in this cultural shift. If we could make “say no to HIV/AIDS” a national call, we can do the same for “say no to hot food in rubber.” After all, true cultural pride is not about resisting change at all costs. It’s about protecting what makes us whole and that includes our health.

Evidence Guides Policy, Not Convenience

Some skeptics have dismissed the EPA Director’s claim that drinking hot porridge from a plastic bag is equivalent to smoking 36 cigarettes, calling it an exaggeration or a scare tactic. But let’s not get lost in the metaphor. The science is clear and deeply unsettling.

Multiple peer-reviewed studies have confirmed that heating plastics, especially thin, low-grade types like polyethylene, leads to the leaching of toxic substances such as Bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, and styrene. These chemicals are classified as endocrine disruptors, meaning they interfere with hormone function, and many are carcinogenic or linked to reproductive damage. Children, pregnant women, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to these effects.

International bodies such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) have raised repeated alarms about plastic use in food contact materials especially under heat. These are not fringe voices; they are the global gold standard in public health guidance.

Even if the comparison to cigarette smoking was made to drive urgency, it serves a critical purpose: to jolt the public into awareness of an invisible but deadly exposure and it should be taken seriously.

The real danger lies not in exaggeration, but in minimisation. Policymakers must resist the temptation to delay action just because the truth is uncomfortable or unpopular. When science speaks clearly, leadership must follow boldly.

Conclusion: Choosing Health Over Harm

Ghana has reached a moment of truth. We can continue to trade our health for convenience, wrap our meals in poison, and call it culture or we can act decisively to protect ourselves and future generations. The science is overwhelming, the risks are real and the longer we delay, the more lives we place in danger quietly, invisibly, daily.

This is not a call to punish the poor or demonise the everyday food vendor. It is a call to stand with them, to support a just transition toward safer practices, and to hold government accountable for creating the enabling environment that makes such a transition possible. Regulation, when combined with education, support, and innovation, is not oppressive – it is protective.

We have the knowledge, we have the cultural wisdom and with political will and public engagement, we can make Ghana a leader in health-conscious food packaging across Africa. Let us not serve our people warm meals laced with silent killers. Let us serve them dignity, safety, and a future free from avoidable suffering. Our health is not disposable. Our nation cannot package its future in poisonous plastic.

The writer is a lecturer at the Business School of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration, GIMPA.

Speaking at a press conference organized by the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Afenyo-Markin criticized what he termed a failed “social contract” between the President and the Ghanaian people, insisting that the promises made within that timeframe have largely gone unfulfilled.

“The 120-day social contract was nothing more than a political gimmick—full of lofty promises with no intention of actual delivery,” he stated.

He pointed to the ongoing menace of illegal mining (galamsey) and the continued imposition of the COVID-19 levy as examples of unmet commitments.

According to him, the government’s pledge to abolish nuisance taxes remains unfulfilled, while environmental degradation continues under its watch.

With the 120-day period now over, Afenyo-Markin warned that Ghanaians will begin to experience the true nature of the Mahama administration.

He called on citizens to remain vigilant and speak up in defense of democracy and accountability.

This call was made during a visit by the Coalition, alongside environmental NGO A Rocha Ghana, to the Ghana Mine Repository and Tracking Control Centre, which monitors earth-moving equipment within mining concessions.

Speaking at the visit on Wednesday, May 7, the Coalition’s Convenor, Dr. Ken Ashigbey, emphasized that expanding the tracking system would enable security agencies to more effectively detect and prevent illegal mining operations across the country.

“These excavators are not mobile phones you can hide in your pocket,” Dr. Ashigbey stated. “With proper tracking and QR code identification, police should be able to monitor and verify whether equipment is being used lawfully.”

Dr. Ashigbey called on the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and the Minerals Commission to scale up the initiative, urging more robust measures to crack down on galamsey.

Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama reaffirmed his government’s commitment to ending mining activities in Ghana’s forest reserves. As part of a broader 120-day action plan to reform the mining sector, President Mahama announced plans to amend the Minerals and Mining Act, 2003 (Act 703), to permanently outlaw mining in protected forest areas.

“Seven out of nine reserves have been reclaimed, and illegal miners have been flushed out,” President Mahama stated, adding that a legislative instrument—L.I. 2462—was presented to Parliament on March 20, 2025, to remove the president’s discretionary power to permit mining in forest reserves.

The proposed reforms also include tougher enforcement measures, collaboration with stakeholders, and the reclamation of degraded lands.

Speaking in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mr. Opare Addo stated emphatically that no staff recruited with proper financial clearance prior to the elections were laid off.

He explained that appointments without the required clearance could not be considered valid and urged those affected to seek legal redress if they believe their dismissal was unjust.

“You cannot give what you do not have. Before getting an appointment letter, you need financial clearance. Those without it were not officially employed,” he said.

The Minister added that while a few concerns were brought to his attention and investigated, the majority of agencies, including the Ministries of Health and Foreign Affairs, retained their staff.

He also encouraged anyone with evidence of wrongful dismissal to present it for review.

“You cannot give what you do not have. Before receiving an appointment letter, you must obtain financial clearance, and these individuals did not have financial clearance. We did not terminate anyone who was employed before the elections. Many agencies, including the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, maintained their staff.

“If any other agency went against this directive, you need to find out why they did not comply and whether they violated the directive. A few cases have come to my attention, and we looked into them. The majority of those who are complaining about being dismissed can seek redress if they have legitimacy; they can go to court,” he added.

ALSO READ:

• Galamsey: Parliament will review L.I. 2462 once formally presented – Afenyo-Markin

• Fifi Kwetey advocates for separation of parliamentary and ministerial roles

Instead, funds will be channelled through master trainers to cover apprenticeship fees and provide equipment.

Speaking in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mr. Opare Addo explained that the focus is on ensuring proper skills training and sustainability.

“We are not giving lump sums to individuals. We only pay apprentice fees to master trainers and provide equipment where necessary. This ensures that even when one apprentice graduates, others can continue to benefit,” he stated.

Graduates of the programme will also receive the necessary tools and support to help them transition into employment or start their own businesses.

Launched by President John Mahama at the University for Development Studies in Tamale, the initiative is expected to benefit over 500,000 young Ghanaians over the next five years as part of efforts to reduce youth unemployment.

ALSO READ:

• Galamsey: Parliament will review L.I. 2462 once formally presented – Afenyo-Markin

• Fifi Kwetey advocates for separation of parliamentary and ministerial roles

In an exclusive interview with JoyNews’ Elton Brobbey on The Pulse, Justice Atuguba said while some of Mahama’s appointments were deserving, the composition of the Court would have been stronger and more balanced with a wider range of professional backgrounds.

“Part of the judges appointed by Mahama are deserving, but I won’t absolve them completely either because when it comes to these things, you look at the nature of the court they are going to, the challenges they will face, their background and suitability,” he noted.

He explained that over the years, he had come to appreciate the value of drawing Supreme Court justices from a variety of sources, not just the bench. “I found that with these appointments, particularly to the Supreme Court, some should come from the Bar, very distinguished practitioners who are upright, some should come from academia, and some from the Court of Appeal. Then you have a balance,” he said.

Justice Atuguba pointed out that he himself was appointed to the Supreme Court directly from the Bar, as was former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo. He argued that this kind of diversity strengthens the Court’s ability to handle its main constitutional responsibilities.

“The Supreme Court is basically a constitutional court. We don’t have it as such formally like South Africa, but the most important part of its jurisdiction is constitutional. They have exclusive authority in the interpretation and enforcement of the Constitution,” he stated.

He added that constitutional and administrative law matters, which dominate the Supreme Court’s work, are more theoretical and still evolving in many areas, unlike more straightforward matters like contracts. “So the academics, they are good at that because they are research people,” he said.

Justice Atuguba concluded by saying that he believes the current Court lacks that professional mix. “I find a problem in that you don’t have people from the Bar or academia. I want that Court to be balanced, because it has worked well in the past.

“I don’t know the background of these individuals, but what I want to say is that seniority, when it is bypassed, is wrong. But it is not just raw seniority. Competent seniority, when bypassed, is bad. Not just seniority for seniority’s sake, that doesn’t serve the country well,” he added.

ALSO READ:

• Galamsey: Parliament will review L.I. 2462 once formally presented – Afenyo-Markin

• Fifi Kwetey advocates for separation of parliamentary and ministerial roles

Speaking on JoyNews’ The Pulse, Justice Atuguba dismissed the NPP’s response as “rubbish,” stating that their posture merely serves to advance their narrative.

The Supreme Court, in a narrow 3–2 ruling delivered on Tuesday, May 7, dismissed a case brought by the Member of Parliament for Old Tafo, Ekow Vincent Assafuah. The case challenged the President’s decision to suspend and initiate removal proceedings against the Chief Justice following petitions alleging misconduct.

According to Justice Atuguba, “Scanning through the events in the court, that is rubbish.”

He argued that the NPP had no objections when Justice Gertrude Torkornoo was making decisions in their favour, hence their public outcry over her suspension.

The suspension of Chief Justice Torkornoo has sparked controversy across the political divide. While the Presidency maintains that the move is in line with constitutional requirements, the NPP has strongly condemned the action, describing it as a politically motivated attempt to erode the independence of the judiciary.

The NPP also staged a protest in Accra, drawing hundreds of supporters, party executives, sympathisers, and members of other opposition political parties.

Protesters marched through major streets, wielding placards with inscriptions such as “Hands Off Our Judiciary,” “Stop the Interference,” and “Justice Must Be Independent.”

The demonstration, which culminated in the submission of a petition to the Supreme Court, the Speaker of Parliament, and the President, was described by organisers as a move to push the President to reconsider his decision.

The Chief Justice’s abrupt suspension followed allegations of misconduct linked to administrative decisions she reportedly made regarding judicial appointments and procurement processes.

Critics of the suspension argue that it sets a dangerous precedent and opens the judiciary to political manipulation.

ALSO READ:

• Galamsey: Parliament will review L.I. 2462 once formally presented – Afenyo-Markin

• Fifi Kwetey advocates for separation of parliamentary and ministerial roles

The ceremony, held at the Jubilee House on May 7, brought together prominent religious, traditional, and civil society leaders who will steer the Council’s mandate of promoting peace, dialogue, and national cohesion.

List of Members of the Reconstituted National Peace Council:

1. Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Fianu, SVD (Chairman)

2. Rt. Rev. Dr. Hilliard K. Dela Dogbe, Ph.D.

3. Apostle Eric Kwabena Nyamekye

4. Bishop Dr. Victor Osei

5. Alhaji Maulvi Mohammed Bin Salih

6. Sheikh Salman Mohammed Alhassan

7. Sheikh Armiyawo Shaibu

8. Numo Blafo Akotia Omaetu III

9. Linda Teye

10. Dr. Abubakar Umar Alhassan

11. Georgette Francois

12. Susan Aryeetey

13. Nana Effah-Apenteng

ALSO READ:

• Galamsey: Parliament will review L.I. 2462 once formally presented – Afenyo-Markin

• Fifi Kwetey advocates for separation of parliamentary and ministerial roles

The chairman of the committee is local governance expert Prof. Kwamena Ahwoi.

The members are Estelle Appiah, an expert in legislative drafting and peer review mechanisms; Nii Lantey Vanderpuye, a former Ranking Member of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Local Government; Alhaji Ishaq Alhassan, former Director of Local Governance and Legal Affairs, MLGRD; Dr. Rainer Akumperigya, a legal practitioner and Secretary of the Constitutional Review Committee; and Ms. Heidi Boakye, Principal State Attorney at the Office of the Attorney-General.

Also on the committee are Dr. Nana Opare Gyan, former Director of M&E, NDPC; Stephen Ankugre, NALAG Council Member and Presiding Member of the Bolgatanga Municipal Assembly; Samuel Seth Passah, Director of Local Governance and Decentralisation; Dr. Richard Fiadomor, President of the Chamber of Local Government; and Ing. Baah Tetteh, acting Director of Management and Technical Services, Office of the Head of the Local Government Service.

Relevance

Dr. Gameli Kewuribe Hoedoafia, the Executive Secretary of the IMCC, who introduced the members of the committee in Accra, underscored the importance of the committee’s work, stating:

“The LRC, formerly the Legislative Review Taskforce, has a distinguished track record, having played a key role in shaping landmark legislation such as the Local Governance Act of 2016 (Act 936), the Land Use and Spatial Planning Act of 2016 (Act 925), the Youth Authority Act, the Sports Authority Act of 2016 (Act 939), the Births and Deaths Registration Act of 2020 (Act 1027), and the legislative instruments for the NDPC Act and the NDPC Systems Act.”

He added, “Its establishment is both a strategic and urgent step toward aligning our decentralisation laws with current development realities.”

Dr. Hoedoafia also expressed appreciation to Prof. Ahwoi for agreeing to lead the committee, describing him as the “Father of decentralisation in Ghana.” He expressed confidence that the committee would deliver a comprehensive and forward-looking legal review to strengthen the institutional arrangements within the sector.

Commitment

Prof. Ahwoi reaffirmed his commitment to the task of advancing a national decentralisation agenda. He emphasised that effective decentralisation was foundational for sustainable development and commended President Mahama for his visionary leadership in advancing decentralisation reforms during his tenure as Vice President and President.

“The IMCC has an inter-sectoral policy coordination role, and this committee will work hard to identify and propose remedies for legal gaps within the various sectoral laws,” the chairman concluded.

ALSO READ:

• Galamsey: Parliament will review L.I. 2462 once formally presented – Afenyo-Markin

• Fifi Kwetey advocates for separation of parliamentary and ministerial roles

The operation, led by District Chief Executive (DCE) Vasco Obour, targeted miners operating deep within the river.

According to reports, the illegal miners fled upon spotting the approaching task force, abandoning their locally constructed boats, changfangs, and additional mining machinery at the site.

Without delay, the task force set fire to the equipment to prevent any further use in the area.

District Chief Executive Vasco Obour, speaking after the exercise, explained the coordinated efforts that led to the raid.

He noted that intelligence gathering and community engagement played a key role in tracking the activities of the miners.

He also noted that the assembly is ready to collaborate with the District Security Council (DISEC) and local stakeholders to develop long-term strategies to end illegal mining on water bodies in the district.

]]> https://www.adomonline.com/10-illegal-miners-arrested-in-boin-forest-reserve/ Tue, 06 May 2025 12:26:49 +0000 https://www.adomonline.com/?p=2532141

Illegal mining poses a significant threat to Ghana’s forests, water bodies, and farmlands, and the Boin Forest Reserve has been particularly vulnerable in recent years.

Mr. Frimpong issued a stern warning to individuals and groups involved in similar activities, stating that the Enchi Forest Division, in collaboration with security agencies, will not relent in its mandate to preserve the integrity of Ghana’s forest lands.

]]> https://www.adomonline.com/sehwi-akontombra-galamsey-claims-four-lives-in-april-alone/ Sun, 04 May 2025 09:02:04 +0000 https://www.adomonline.com/?p=2531060

The acting Director-General of the Authority, Felix Gyamfi, said in an interview with JoyNews on #GhanaConnect that the training will instill discipline, patriotism, and a readiness to support national development goals.

He stated that the training aims to prepare young people not just for emergencies and disaster response but also to combat societal challenges like illegal mining, poor sanitation, and environmental degradation.

“We must confront the battle against the cancer of illegal mining (galamsey) and reclaim our lands from environmental degradation. We also have to tackle issues like poor sanitation, malaria, and other public health crises.

“These are not challenges that education alone can solve. They require physical and mental discipline. With this kind of training, young people will begin to show up early, show up on time, and most importantly, show up prepared,” Mr. Gyamfi stated.

According to him, the training will last a minimum of six weeks and will be conducted in collaboration with the Ghana Armed Forces, with personnel deployed to various military barracks across the country.

Although participation in this year’s pilot will be based on voluntary interest, the NSA expects high demand and will select participants across diverse backgrounds including agriculture, health, and policing.

Mr. Gyamfi stated that next year’s national service cohort will undergo the training as a mandatory component, possibly integrated into the service calendar.

“If not all service personnel undergo the military training this year, it will be mandatory for everyone starting next year. The program will likely begin earlier, and during the service period, personnel will be called up for six weeks of training.“

Scores mourn with Akumaa Mama Zimbi as she buries mother

See the areas that will be affected by ECG’s planned maintenance…

Addressing party supporters and various groups at the Roman Catholic Church in Atebubu, in the Bono East Region, during the seventh day of his nationwide “Thank You” tour, Dr. Bawumia criticised the Mahama-led administration for failing to deliver on its flagship promise.

He argued that the NDC created the impression during the 2024 election campaign that it had immediate solutions to Ghana’s economic challenges. However, four months into office, he claimed, the situation has only worsened.

Dr. Bawumia cited the rising cost of goods, surging cement prices, and growing public concerns over persistent power outages (dumsor) and illegal mining (galamsey) as evidence of the NDC’s failure.

He also noted that despite the 24-hour economy being the centrepiece of the NDC’s campaign, it was not mentioned in the 2025 national budget—an indication, he said, that the policy has been shelved.

Nonetheless, he encouraged NPP supporters by drawing on former President Mahama’s political comeback, saying his return to power after his 2016 defeat shows that the NPP can also reclaim power in 2028—if the party learns from its mistakes.

READ ALSO:

• National Chairman hasn’t abandoned ‘Thank You’ tour – Justin Kodua
• Magistrate urges gov’t to fund NCCE for public rights education

Nuhu was apprehended during an operation led by Assistant District Manager Richmond Amo-Adjei, during which his accomplices fled the scene.

Mr. Amo-Adjei explained that his team acted on intelligence about galamsey operations in the Pranu Forest Reserve near Asante Akyem. The forestry guards responded swiftly and arrested Ahmed Nuhu, an excavator operator, while two excavator machines were abandoned by the fleeing accomplices.

The suspect has since been handed over to the Dwaso Police for further investigation, while efforts are underway to apprehend the remaining suspects.

Mr. Amo-Adjei further cautioned galamsey operators to stay away from the Pranu Forest Reserve, stressing that it is a no-go area for such activities.

He also urged residents living nearby to report any signs of forest destruction to the Forestry Commission to enable prompt action and protect the reserve.

ALSO READ:

• Galamsey equipment in Oda Forest Reserve set on fire

• 2 Chinese ‘galamseyers’ arrested in Oda Forest Reserve [Video]

Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Friday, 2nd May, he criticised the program for lacking the necessary safeguards to prevent abuse and misappropriation.

According to Mr. Afenyo-Markin, while the intention behind Goldbod may seem noble, the reality suggests otherwise.

“This whole idea of Goldbod is not in the national interest. We’ve seen similar programs before, and they end up in the hands of galamseyers and politically connected individuals,” he stated.

He argued that without strict regulation and oversight, the initiative would simply become another conduit for illegal mining activities.

The Minority Leader further questioned the government’s commitment to fighting illegal mining, pointing out contradictions between policy announcements and enforcement.

“How do you say you’re combating galamsey and at the same time roll out a scheme that could easily be hijacked by the very actors destroying our environment?” he asked.

Mr. Afenyo-Markin called for a thorough review of the program and greater stakeholder consultation to ensure transparency and accountability.

He concluded by urging the government to prioritise long-term environmental protection over short-term financial gains.

“If we truly care about the future of our natural resources, then we must design policies that are sustainable and resistant to abuse. Goldbod, in its current form, does not meet that test,” he insisted.

ALSO READ:

• GoldBod extends deadline for gold dealers to reapply for licences

• GoldBod secures agreement with 9 mining companies to buy 20% of their gold output

The Union urged the President to tread cautiously as it could set a bad precedent.

President John Mahama has acknowledged that the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, is a complex one.

However, the President has vowed not to give up, stating he wasn’t delusional that the fight would be won within four months of his administration.

He was speaking at the Workers’ Day celebration held at the Black Star Square on Thursday, May 1.

“The fight against galamsey is a complex one, and when I was vying for the presidency, I did not kid myself that when I come into office, I will win that fight in four months, yet we will not give up,” he said.

“Our gallant men of the Armed Forces and security services are up to the fight, and we will continue to score successes against the selfish companies and individuals who are destroying our forests and polluting our water bodies.

“As far as the fight against galamsey is concerned, I say Aluta Continua,” he stated.

ALSO READ:

• Mahama must fight galamsey, not complain – Amoakwa-Boadu

• I wish you well, but… – Kofi Bentil to Mahama over galamsey fight

But Mr. Adorye, speaking on Adom FM Dwaso Nsem, emphasised that he was unwilling to go through with it.

“Nobody has anything against me. At a point, a big man requested that I’m given a concession for galamsey and even engaged the DCE and other people but I never stepped foot there,” he said.

Mr. Adorye shared this while reacting to Akonta Mining Company Limited’s defamation suit against the Minerals Commission and Lands Minister Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah.

In a writ filed at the Accra High Court on April 24, Akonta Mining claims that Minister Buah defamed the company during a press conference on April 22, accusing it of orchestrating illegal mining operations in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.

The company is therefore, demanding GH₵20 million in damages over allegations of illegal mining and corruption in protected forest reserves.

But Mr. Adorye has cautioned the company to tread cautiously.

ALSO READ:

• Tano Anwia’s concession owner teams up with Forestry Commission to combat galamsey

• I have a concession but not involved in galamsey – Sam Pyne [Audio]

The ceremony took place at Burma Camp on Wednesday and was made public in a Facebook post by the Minister on Thursday, 1st May.

Dr Boamah expressed gratitude to the leadership of the Ghana Armed Forces for their commitment to sustaining quality medical services within the military.

“I thanked the military High Command led by Maj. General William Agyapong, Senior and Junior Officers, Soldiers, and Defence Civilian Staff for sustaining medical services within the Ghana Armed Forces,” he stated.

He praised the professionalism and dedication of the personnel, noting that the improved medical facility would further enhance healthcare delivery for both military personnel and their families.

“We appreciate their dedicated service,” Dr Boamah added, highlighting the vital role of medical services in supporting operational readiness and national defence.

The Defence Minister also took the opportunity to recognise and honour members of the private sector who contributed financially to the project.

“In giving awards to the private sector that funded the project, I commended them for their welcome generosity,” he wrote, applauding the spirit of public-private partnership in enhancing national infrastructure.

ALSO READ:

• Defence Minister engages retired officers on welfare issues

• Defence Minister engages Canadian and Dutch envoys on peace and galamsey fight

The company is demanding GH₵20 million in damages over allegations of illegal mining and corruption in protected forest reserves.

In a writ filed at the Accra High Court on April 24, Akonta Mining claims that Minister Buah defamed the company during a press conference on April 22, accusing it of orchestrating illegal mining operations in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.

The company denies these allegations, stating that its legally acquired mining leases, granted in 2021, are outside the reserve.

On April 21, the Minister directed the immediate revocation of all mining licenses held by Akonta Mining Company Limited.

This followed serious allegations of illegal mining activities (galamsey) and regulatory breaches by the mining company.

Speaking at a press conference, the Minister disclosed that Akonta Mining had been implicated in a series of unlawful activities, including engaging in galamsey operations and violating established mining regulations.

Mr Buah stated that the company has also been illegally selling concessions within the Aboi Forest to unauthorised miners for up to GH₵300,000, and in some cases, in exchange for gold royalties.

“This company has not only trespassed into protected reserves but has become a criminal syndicate, selling access of the Aboi Forest Reserve to illegal miners for a staggering GH₵300,000 per concession.

“Worse, these illegal miners operate under Akonta’s protection, devastating the River Tano and surrounding forests with impunity,” Mr Buah said.

He continued, “As part of the agreement between Akonta Mining and the illegal miners, weekly royalties of 250 grams of gold are to be paid to the company, lining the pockets of Akonta’s collaborators.”

In response to these allegations, the company in its lawsuit emphasised that it holds two valid 10-year mining leases since 2021 covering Samreboe and Abokoase areas, which are outside the Tano Nimiri reserve.

It added full compliance with all regulations, including payment of $301,000 in mineral rights fees and ground rents.

The company further maintains that there is no evidence supporting the Minister’s claims of encroachment or criminal activity.

On the back of these, Akonta Mining is seeking GHC 20 million in damages for defamation, a retraction and public apology from the Minister, and a court injunction barring further allegedly false statements.

He warned that failure to do so would be a major letdown, especially considering his previous experience in office.

Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem on Tuesday, April 29, Charles Owusu described illegal mining—commonly known as galamsey—as a national crisis that must be addressed beyond political lines.

He called for immediate intervention, including deploying the Ghana Armed Forces to guard the country’s forest reserves.

“I’ll be disappointed if Mahama fails in this galamsey fight. He’s tried and failed before, so he knows what’s at stake. If by tomorrow all forest zones are declared military zones, galamsey will end,” he said.

Rev. Owusu argued that the lack of political will is the biggest obstacle, suggesting that illegal miners often receive protection from political actors.

“We all know that depending on who is in power, their own people are involved. That’s why harsh actions are avoided,” he added.

He dismissed the idea that repealing existing mining laws like LI 2462 would solve the problem, stating that enforcement—not legislation—is the real issue.

He called for the creation of a dedicated Forest Protection Unit within the Ghana Armed Forces to safeguard the country’s dwindling green spaces.

“God didn’t give us gold to destroy ourselves. Our forests are disappearing, water bodies are polluted, and yet we’re doing nothing because we’re afraid to confront those behind it,” he lamented.

Rev. Owusu further highlighted the inconsistency in political narratives, recalling how the then-opposition NDC demanded swift action from President Akufo-Addo, only for the problem to persist under their own watch.

He further proposed restricting small-scale mining to Ghanaians, questioning the unchecked operations of foreign nationals and large mining companies in the sector.

“You have just four years. Use your power to end this. Bring together the Lands Ministry, Forestry Commission, Lands Commission, and security chiefs. Declare the forests a military zone. If you do that, we won’t be talking about galamsey on the radio anymore,” he said.

READ ALSO:

• Health Minister pledges three months salary to Ghana Medical Trust Fund
• Charles Bissue responds to OSP’s criminal charges

In an interview at the Accra Regional Command on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, Okatakyie announced the suspension of the three-day intended protest.

He explained that the demonstration aimed to raise awareness on galamsey (illegal mining) and influence the government’s policy on the menace through their petition, lamenting the devastation caused to the environment.

“It was clear that on Monday, the demonstration was all over the world — the internet, various homes in Ghana and abroad — which makes it fulfilling to the Generational Rights Protection Society Group. So the group has suspended the demonstration till further notice,” he announced.

He added that the decision became necessary following engagements with the police and suggestions put before the group for consideration.

Okatakyie revealed that the Deputy Minister for Justice and Attorney General, Justice Srem-Sai, advised the group to re-engage with the police for further discussions on how the remaining demonstrations could be held peacefully and orderly.

The protestors had been calling for a total ban on mining activities to allow the government to conduct a comprehensive audit, while also mounting pressure on authorities to declare a state of emergency over the issue.

ALSO READ:

• Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah to lead anti-galamsey demo to Jubilee House [Video]
• Police secure restriction notice against anti-galamsey demo at Jubilee House

• Accra High Court strikes out motion against anti-galamsey protest

He has urged the two major political parties in Parliament to work together in finding lasting solutions to the menace, rather than playing the blame game.

“We need minerals to support our country, but that doesn’t mean we should destroy it. There should be a balance between harnessing our resources to build our country and preserving it,” he stated.

Rev. Dr. Adu Gyamfi made the remark in an interview with Adom News during the 62nd Annual Refresher Course, Retreat, and Business Session of the Ghana Baptist Convention at Ejura in Ashanti region.

The three-day conference had the theme: “Ministers Pressing Forward, Finishing Strong”.

The former Executive President of the Baptist Convention encouraged ministers of the Baptist churches not to be discouraged in doing the Lord’s work but to commit themselves to crossing the finishing line.

“It’s not easy being a minister, especially in our locality where the local church takes care of you, unlike other places with a centralized system. It’s difficult for some of us to operate in certain circles,” he noted.

The 2025 retreat brought together ministers from local churches under the Ghana Baptist Convention.

On the issue of illegal mining, Rev. Dr. Ernest Adu Gyamfi suggested that there should be proper public education rather than solely relying on radical approaches to combat the menace

According to JoyNews’ environmental journalist, Erastus Asare Donkoh, who has been closely covering the issue of illegal mining (galamsey) in the country, the armed men stormed the premises of the commission and made off with five of the machines.

Erastus reported that the men claimed they were acting on orders from a higher political authority to take the seized machines.

He noted that there was a confrontation between the commission’s officers and the security personnel, but the officers were overpowered, and the machines were driven away.

However, shortly after the machines were taken, the security men returned all five excavators to the commission. Upon inquiry, it was revealed that the so-called political authority had ordered the return of the machines.

Erastus explained that these excavators had been seized by the commission from illegal miners operating within forest reserves in the Ashanti region.

At the time of this report, JoyNews could not confirm the individuals behind the action.

“It is still unclear who directed that the seized excavators from the Kyemira extension of the Offin Shelter Belt should be returned or released,” he told Maame Esi Nyamekye Thompson on Joy FM’s midday news on Tuesday, 29th April.

ALSO READ:

• Galamsey: 13 excavators seized, Chinese and others arrested in Ashanti region 

• Galamsey: Court revokes order to release excavators seized in Boin Forest

Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Dr. Ashigbey emphasized that the window to address the menace of galamsey is rapidly closing.

He called on the over 50 civil society groups that released statements on the issue in late 2024 to re-mobilize and support the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and the President in tackling the crisis.

He stressed that national unity and urgency are required to curb the environmental destruction and lawlessness associated with illegal mining, urging all stakeholders to recommit to the cause before it is too late.

He said, “What we need to do now is for all the over 50 groups that issued statements in the last quarter of 2024 to rise up together. The Lands Minister has invited us all, as Ghanaians, to join in this fight. The window of opportunity is closing, and we need to act quickly to resolve this menace. Some individuals are parading as party members, claiming nothing can be done about them. If we don’t assist the Minister and the President, we will be in trouble. It is crucial that we come together as Ghanaians.”

READ ALSO:

• Binduri MP optimistic about lasting peace in Bawku
• Goaso Hospital appeals for urgent infrastructure and staffing improvements

Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show, Dwaso Nsem, the Minister emphasized the need for inclusive development, stating that women, often marginalized in employment opportunities, are a key focus of the programme.

“Women are a key component of what we are doing because they are mostly a marginalized group. Therefore, we are reserving a percentage of applications for women. We hope to achieve a maximum of 60% of the total applications from women and 15% for people living with disabilities to ensure that our initiative is inclusive for all marginalized individuals in our society,” he said.

The Minister added that men are not excluded. However, he encouraged more women and persons with disabilities to apply in order to ensure broader representation and impact.

“While we welcome applications from men, we hope to see more women apply so that everyone is well represented. Additionally, we are including individuals within the galamsey enclave and those who are being rehabilitated from drug abuse, so they can create a better life for themselves.”

The programme, launched on March 19, is being implemented by the National Youth Authority (NYA) and aims to provide practical, vocational training to equip young Ghanaians with employable skills.

It also targets individuals from galamsey-prone areas and those recovering from drug abuse, offering them a pathway to rehabilitation and sustainable livelihoods.

Watch the video below:

READ ALSO:

• Binduri MP optimistic about lasting peace in Bawku
• Goaso Hospital appeals for urgent infrastructure and staffing improvements

Dr. Aubynn stated that the involvement of politicians in the menace, despite its devastating impact, is undermining the fight.

“The worst of it all, and I have said and written about it since 2009, so it’s not a new thing, the worst of it all is the involvement of politicians in this business. It becomes so difficult to resolve when you have politicians, some of whom are in very leading positions, involved. You can’t successfully push them out,” he said in an interview on Accra-based Channel One TV.

Highlighting the complex and deeply entrenched nature of galamsey, Dr. Aubynn noted that vested interests make meaningful reform extremely challenging.

To support his point, he recalled former President Akufo-Addo’s public defense in January 2023, when he categorically dismissed claims that Akonta Mining Company Limited was involved in any illegal mining activities in Ghana.

“That is how come, I think, the former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo at one point in time said Akonta Mining was not doing anything illegal, even though the facts spoke otherwise,” he said.

Akufo-Addo’s defense came at a time when many groups and individuals demanded punitive measures against the company and its owners, led by the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, for alleged illegal activities in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve in the Western North Region.

Subsequently, the Mahama-led administration revoked the company’s license following “overwhelming evidence” of illegal mining and criminal syndication.

ALSO READ:

• The galamseyers’ regret: From digging gold to seeking forgiveness [Video]

• Galamsey: 13 excavators seized, Chinese and others arrested in Ashanti region 

Court throws out Charles Bissue’s charge against OSP

• OSP completes probe into police recruitment, Charles Bissue cases

The Omanhene made these remarks when Dr. Abbey, accompanied by some senior management staff, paid a courtesy call on him during a three-day working tour of the Western North and South Regions.

Highlighting the complexity and demands of COCOBOD’s operations, Tetrete Okuamoah noted that the organization requires immense effort, time, and dedication to satisfy stakeholders along the cocoa value chain. He emphasized that Dr. Abbey’s early actions demonstrate his strong commitment to revitalizing the sector through sound policies.

“It is a very clear indication of how determined you are in moving the industry forward, despite taking over from the previous administration just a few months ago,” he said.

The Paramount Chief further urged the new management to continue projects initiated by the previous administration, including road construction, hospitals, schools, and other infrastructural developments critical to supporting cocoa communities.

“Some projects were halted under the previous administration; don’t abandon them. Continue so you will be remembered for your legacy,” he advised.

Tetrete Okuamoah also stressed the importance of sustaining productivity initiatives such as the Cocoa Rehabilitation Programme, CODAPEC Hi-Tech, Pruning, and Hand-Pollination, which he described as crucial in maintaining and enhancing cocoa yields nationwide.

On illegal mining (galamsey), the Chief lamented its devastating impact on cocoa farms, particularly in the Western South Region, which, according to him, contributes between 20% and 40% of Ghana’s total cocoa production. He called for national collaboration in combating the menace and pledged his support for any anti-galamsey initiatives introduced by COCOBOD.

“Illegal mining is a national crisis, not just a local issue. I am ready to support any policies you outline to address this threat,” he stated.

The Paramount Chief further appealed to the COCOBOD leadership to prioritize setting a decent producer price for cocoa farmers to discourage the sale of farmlands to illegal miners and attract more youth into cocoa farming.

“Consider the farmers’ hard work, sweat, and dedication, and reward them with a fair producer price to sustain their commitment to the sector,” he concluded.

Responding to the Omanhene’s concerns, Dr. Randy Abbey assured him of the Board’s commitment to addressing the challenges. He reiterated COCOBOD’s focus on increasing productivity, improving farmers’ livelihoods, and intensifying the fight against illegal mining activities.

“Nana, I can assure you that the 2025/2026 crop season will open with a new and better producer price this August. We are also putting in place strong policies to curb the galamsey menace and boost production, despite the challenges the sector is facing,” Dr. Abbey pledged.

The visit formed part of COCOBOD’s broader stakeholder engagement efforts aimed at strengthening partnerships and building a resilient and sustainable cocoa industry.

Across universities in Ghana, young men who were once illegal miners, commonly known as galamseyers, are now sharing a different story. It is not a story of riches or success, but one of pain, regret, and a strong desire to make things right.

24-year-old university student, Yaw Attah (pseudonym) says he lost both parents on October 14, 2016. They were the ones supporting his education. After their death, his world changed.

“I had nobody to take care of me. I had to find something to do… that’s why I went into galamsey,” he said.

With no support, Yaw turned to illegal mining as his only hope for survival.

For years, he and others worked in dangerous illegal mining sites. They say the money helped them survive. It paid for food, clothing, and even school fees. But it came at a cost to Ghana’s rivers and forests.

“I am aware that galamsey activity is destroying our water bodies and forests. I just wanted to support my education. But today, I feel pain,” said Yaw. “We’ve caused damage to water bodies and the environment.”

Yaw, now studying Bachelor of Education in Early Childhood, says his journey to school was paid for by the same activity that harmed rivers, forests, and even human lives. He recalls how several of his friends died under strange and sad circumstances while working in galamsey.

“In the years I was involved in galamsey, many of my friends lost their lives. Some got into drug abuse, others ended up in child trafficking or prostitution. Some became very sick and can’t work anymore,” Yaw shared, his voice filled with pain.

A call for forgiveness and a fresh start

“I deeply regret going into galamsey,” Yaw said. “When I sit and think about what we did at those sites, I feel very sad. In the next ten years, our children, our brothers and sisters—how will they get clean water to drink or land to farm? It will be a big problem.”

Now, Yaw believes it is time to speak out—not just about the harm caused by illegal mining, but also to guide young people to make better choices.

“If I get the chance, I’ll go back to those communities and ask for forgiveness. I’ll tell the youth: there’s another way. Galamsey is not the only answer.”

He wants to use his education to educate others, especially those still trapped in illegal mining activities. But there’s one more challenge ahead: support to complete his education.

Yaw fears he may not be able to pay his school fees. He hopes for any support to help him finish school and become a stronger voice for change.

“I need help to stay in school.” He wants to be a different kind of miner—one that digs for truth, for justice, and for change.

From destroying to rebuilding

Yaw is not alone. Kojo Majeed (not his real name), a 27-year-old student in his third year of studying BSc Electrical and Electronic Engineering, also shared his experience. Kojo says the dangers of galamsey are more than just environmental. For him, the cost was also human lives.

“I can count about 30 of my friends who died because of illegal mining,” he said.

When asked if he regrets being part of the destruction of Ghana’s rivers and forests, Kojo didn’t hesitate.

“Yes, I regret,” he said softly. I asked him why he feels this way. “It used to rain often, but now the weather has changed. It’s because of the destruction we caused to the forest and the environment,” he explained.

Kojo believes illegal mining has played a big role in the changing weather patterns in Ghana. But he is not just filled with regret—he wants to take action.

“Yes, I will do something to stop galamsey. I will also encourage my younger ones to stop because of the damage we’re causing,” he said. “Now, I plant. My goal is to help restore what we damaged.”

He is now focused on rebuilding what was broken—trees, land, and trust.

Like Yaw, Kojo wants to be part of a new movement led by them to protect and restore the forests.

Both Yaw and Kojo say some of their colleagues also in different universities are willing to help right the wrongs of the past. They admit they cannot erase the damage they caused, but they believe they can stop others from making the same mistakes.

“We know we can’t change what we did,” Yaw said. “But with support, we can help stop the youth from going down the same path.”

They were once buried in the mud of illegal mining. But now, they are rising one voice, one lesson, and one promise at a time. Together, they are calling for opportunities to join environmental campaigns and educate their peers—hoping to turn their regrets into real change.

On Wednesday, some armed men attacked a bus within the Offinso South Municipality, leading to the death of the bus conductor.

This has heightened insecurity among residents of the catchment area.

In a press release from the police, the public is being assured of improvement in security measures along highways within the region.

Heightened security measures adopted by the police include increased highway patrols, established mobile checkpoints, and activation of rapid response teams to deal with emergencies.

The Command indicates there is an ongoing investigation into the matter, as they extend calls to the public to volunteer relevant information to aid the police.

ALSO READ:

• Suspects arrested for vehicle theft, gold robbery and galamsey in Western region 

• Man remanded for alleged robbery of MoMo vendor

In Tarkwa, one Salifu Gariba was arrested for the theft of a Toyota Land Cruiser (PC), registration number GS 1845-23, belonging to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The vehicle was stolen from the residence of an EPA employee in Budo City in the early hours of 15 April.

The suspect was intercepted the following day by officers of the Northern Regional Police Command at Kukobila, along the Tamale–Bolgatanga highway. The vehicle was successfully retrieved. Gariba is currently in police custody as investigations continue.

In a separate incident, three suspects linked to a gold robbery in Wassa Afransie were arrested through an intelligence-led operation.

The suspects—Felix Adjei, alias Africa or Nana Adjei; Emmanuel Kelvin, a Nigerian national; and Kofi Appiah, alias Kesse—are accused of robbing employees of Mas Palasco Gold Buying Limited of 14 pounds of gold and other valuables worth GHS 199,000.

The incident occurred on 4 April, when the suspects, some of whom were armed, ambushed the company’s vehicle returning from Wassa Ayiem.

The robbery also involved the theft of an unregistered Toyota Corolla, which was later found abandoned.

Weapons, ammunition, and a cash amount of GHS 65,000—believed to be proceeds from the robbery—were recovered. All three suspects remain in custody, assisting with further investigations.

Additionally, six individuals were arrested at Bepoakyi near Dompim on 23 April in connection with illegal mining operations.

The suspects—Justice Tetteh, Michael Anche, Bismark Gyimah, Ramzy Amoah, Michael Attivor, and Emmanuel Andoh—were apprehended as part of ongoing anti-galamsey operations.

Five excavators used in the mining activity were seized and are currently being held at the Dompim Police Station, pending transfer to the Tarkwa Nsuaem District Assembly.

The Western Regional Police Command has reiterated its commitment to curbing crime, safeguarding public safety, and protecting the region’s natural resources. Investigations into all three incidents are ongoing.

ALSO READ:

• Man remanded for alleged robbery of MoMo vendor

• Two arrested for attempted robbery near Asankragua

A dawn operation by the Ashanti Region Anti-Galamsey Taskforce has led to the seizure of 13 excavators and some arrests in illegal mining sites at the Adansi enclave.

Leader of the task force, Captain (Rtd) John Kwame Jabari, describes the operation as the most successful since the commencement of the fight.

He says all excavators and suspects targeted in their reconnaissance were arrested.

“It is the most successful because almost all the sites we went, we were able to pick the machines and arrest the culprits who are involved in the illegal mining activities,” he said.

The task force, in efforts to arrest perpetrators of the crime, is formulating new modalities for operation.

A review of operational strategy is driving the current success.

Captain (Retired) Jabari emphasised, “We have changed the modus operandi many times but this time we have been able to perfect it.”

According to the taskforce, the present phase of the operation is geared towards clearing waterways and halting the destruction of cocoa farms.

This follows what the leaders call a successful claw-back of some forest reserves that were being mined illegally.

The Adansi enclave is among the areas heavily affected by illegal mining.

Large tracts of land have been destroyed by the illegality, with many cocoa farms being the worst affected.

Captain (Retired) John Kwame Jabari indicated the operation was prompted by concerned residents within the catchment.

“Most of the time, it is not our own intelligence, the people report these illegality to us and we act on them”, he added.

Meanwhile, the task force continues to warn persons involved in perpetuating the illegality to desist from it.

ALSO READ:

• Galamsey: 13 arrested, 13 excavators seized in operation at Aboifie

• Gov’t moves to track excavators import

During a farmers’ rally at Attronso in the Sefwi Bekwai District, as part of his three-day maiden tour of the Western North Region, Dr. Abbey revealed that COCOBOD is actively considering a review of the producer price of cocoa for the 2025/2026 season.

“This is part of our broader effort to improve the livelihoods of farmers and make cocoa farming attractive to the youth,” he said.

“Despite our financial constraints, management is committed to offering cocoa farmers a better price for their produce.”

Dr. Abbey expressed concern over the ageing population of cocoa farmers, warning that it poses a threat to the sector’s long-term sustainability.

He stressed the need to modernize cocoa farming and introduce innovations that would attract younger people to the industry.

“To make cocoa farming more appealing, we’re working with the Ministry of Agriculture to provide modern tools and equipment,” he noted.

Dr. Abbey also announced plans to invest in irrigation systems to help cocoa farms adapt to erratic rainfall patterns.

He encouraged farmers to form cooperatives to benefit from these interventions more efficiently.

“It’s not feasible to implement irrigation for individual farmers. Cooperative farming is essential if we want to tackle the high costs and water access issues worsened by illegal mining,” he explained.

He also disclosed that COCOBOD is pushing for amendments to laws governing cocoa cultivation to better protect cocoa trees from environmental threats, especially from galamsey activities.

“Cocoa farming is a legacy of wealth for future generations. Strengthening legal protections for cocoa trees is crucial,” he stressed.

Dr. Abbey further assured farmers of the timely delivery of fertilizers and agrochemicals, warning against the diversion of these critical inputs.

“These inputs come at a great cost to support our farmers. Anyone caught in diversion activities will face the full consequences,” he cautioned.

READ ALSO:

• World Bank projects increase in poverty for Nigerians by 2027
• Nkwanta South MCE organizes draining of abandoned underpass

Together, these institutions play critical roles in shaping the lives of individuals, who, in turn, owe allegiance to both systems.

In everyday life, an individual seeking conflict resolution may choose to turn to either the traditional system or the formal legal framework.

Historically, the unity, peace, and security of kingdoms, chieftaincies, and communities were sustained by the leadership and protection provided by chiefs, sub-chiefs, and family or community leaders within the chieftaincy hierarchy.

Traditional governance revolved around these leaders, with customary arbitration, conducted by chiefs and their elders, serving as the primary means of conflict resolution from the village to the state level.

Strong institutions are vital for political stability and democratic governance. They facilitate political participation, uphold the rule of law, and promote national cohesion.

Conversely, weak or defective institutions expose a country to violence, instability, and the breakdown of democratic systems.

Despite the historically significant role of the chieftaincy institution, it is currently beset by numerous challenges, particularly conflicts.

These disputes are neither new nor confined to a single traditional area. While some administrations have engaged the chieftaincy institution constructively, others have mishandled the relationship.

The Rawlings administration maintained a balanced engagement with chiefs, setting clear boundaries.

The Kufuor and Mills administrations also managed these relationships with relative success.

However, under President Nana Akufo-Addo, the situation deteriorated as chiefs were allowed unchecked influence, resulting in impunity, increased lawlessness, and conflict.

I urge President John Mahama to avoid the path taken by his immediate predecessor—a path that stifled business and worsened the country’s economic challenges.

Today, some Ghanaians view the chieftaincy institution as having outlived its usefulness.

Although some conflicts have been peacefully resolved through both customary and legal arbitration, many others remain protracted and destructive.

One of the most persistent issues is land disputes, often caused by unscrupulous chiefs involved in the sale and resale of lands.

These actions have led to violence, civil conflict, and long-standing bitterness among families.

Additionally, the galamsey (illegal mining) menace is impossible to sustain without the complicity or endorsement of some traditional rulers.

To address the issues undermining the chieftaincy institution, I propose the following recommendations:

Amend the Chieftaincy Act and Establish Specialized Courts: The law should be revised to reflect modern realities. Specialised courts should be established in all sixteen regions of Ghana to quickly and fairly adjudicate cases involving traditional rulers who use their position to perpetuate conflict and division. I firmly believe that political parties like the NPP and NDC are not the primary threats to national peace—it is rather some deviant traditional rulers, especially those involved in land matters, who pose a greater risk to democratic progress.

Focus on Empowering Entrepreneurs Over Traditional Rulers: The government should prioritise the development of local entrepreneurs instead of investing heavily in traditional rulers. Only a small fraction—around 10 percent—of Ghanaian chiefs are truly industrious and committed to community development. For instance, the New Juaben Omanhene has established one of the largest oil palm plantations in Ghana, while many of his peers remain entangled in land disputes.

Curb Excessive Political Patronage of Chiefs: Politicians must refrain from giving undue prominence to chiefs or lavishing them with state resources such as luxury vehicles. This practice is detrimental to national economic development. The government should be honest with traditional rulers and hold them accountable, especially regarding land-related misconduct.

In conclusion, chieftaincy succession, land ownership, and party politics are widely perceived as the leading causes of violent conflict in Ghana.

The recurring and often intractable nature of these conflicts poses serious risks to democratic development and national cohesion.

The farmers made the call during a durbar at Ganyorkrom, held in honour of the COCOBOD CEO as part of his regional tour to engage cocoa stakeholders and assess sector-wide challenges.

The farmers described the situation as dire, citing the encroachment of illegal miners on cocoa farms, the destruction of arable land, and the pollution of water bodies as alarming developments that could cripple the local cocoa economy.

“Our cocoa farms are all we have, but these illegal miners are destroying everything,” one farmer stated, adding that if no action is taken, the community could soon lose its primary economic activity.

They urged Dr. Abbey to use his office to advocate stronger government action against illegal mining and called for more protection and support to safeguard cocoa-growing communities in the district.

In his response, Dr. Abbey expressed deep concern over the impact of galamsey on cocoa production and livelihoods. He assured the farmers that their complaints would be forwarded to the relevant state authorities.

He also criticized the previous administration for failing to complete even one-third of the national cocoa rehabilitation programme, despite exhausting the allocated resources.

Dr. Abbey reaffirmed COCOBOD’s commitment to protecting the interests of cocoa farmers and preserving the cocoa sector, which he described as a national treasure and a vital pillar of Ghana’s economy.

The Suaman District, like many others in the Western North Region, has become a hotspot for illegal mining, raising fears about environmental degradation and the long-term viability of cocoa farming.

Farmers in the area are hopeful that the CEO’s visit will lead to urgent government intervention and the restoration of their lands.

• Minority lauds IGP, Interior Minister for reshuffling police commanders at galamsey areas

• Deputy Interior Minister defends deportation of foreigners involved in galamsey

The court’s decision followed a request by Assistant State Attorney David Bachem, acting on the orders of the Attorney General, to withdraw the motion.

This latest ruling clears the way for the anti-galamsey protest, which is set to take place on April 28, 2025.

One of the conveners of the protest, media personality Okatakyie Afrifa, described the initial motion to prohibit the protest as a move made in bad faith.

The protest will begin at Obra Spot near the Kwame Nkrumah Circle in Accra, proceed through the Ring Road, and conclude at the Liberation Square opposite the Jubilee House.

It is scheduled to run from 4:00 p.m. on April 28 to 12:00 a.m. on April 29.

ALSO READ:

• Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah to lead anti-galamsey demo to Jubilee House [Video]

• Police secure restriction notice against anti-galamsey demo at Jubilee House

In a statement, the Police said the group has been notified of the application, which is expected to be heard at the Accra High Court on Friday, April 25, 2025.

The protest, led by media personality Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah, is scheduled to take place from Monday, April 28, to Wednesday, April 30.

It seeks to demand urgent government action to curb irresponsible mining activities that are devastating Ghana’s forests, water bodies, and communities.

Afrifa-Mensah noted that the protest duration could be extended to a month, depending on how participants conduct themselves.

Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, he clarified that the protest should not be seen as an attempt to stir disaffection or make the government unpopular.

He vowed that, barring a court injunction, nothing would prevent concerned citizens from exercising their civil rights.

• Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah to lead anti-galamsey demo to Jubilee House [Video]

• Galamsey: NDC never supported calls for a State of Emergency – Sammy Gyamfi [Video]

The three-day protest is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. on Monday, April 28, and run through Wednesday, April 30, 2025.

It aims to demand urgent government action to curb irresponsible mining activities that are devastating Ghana’s forests, water bodies, and communities.

Afrifa-Mensah noted that the protest duration could be extended to a month, depending on how participants conduct themselves.

Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, he clarified that the protest should not be seen as an attempt to stir disaffection or make the government unpopular.

“I was vocal about galamsey even during President Akufo-Addo’s tenure, and I remain a staunch NPP member,” he said. “This is not about politics—it’s a national emergency.”

He described the protest under the current Mahama-led government as a symbolic cry for help in the face of Ghana’s worsening environmental crisis, while also offering practical solutions.

ALSO READ:

• GJA condemns attack on journalists by galamsey operators, demands swift justice
• Galamsey: NDC never supported calls for a State of Emergency – Sammy Gyamfi [Video]