Saturday, August 29, 2026 – In a statement following the swearing-in of Minister Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings as Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, President John Dramani Mahama underscored his administration’s unwavering commitment to combating the escalating destruction of Ghana’s forests and water bodies. The President’s remarks came as a stark warning following a declaration by the government to intensify its efforts against individuals engaged in illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, which he described as a significant threat to the nation’s long-term survival.
Mr. Mahama emphasized that environmental damage caused by galamsey represents a grave and escalating crisis, one that he stated is ‘one of the greatest threats to our national survival’. He specifically highlighted the potential for irreversible damage to vital ecosystems and resources. The President underscored that the administration will not tolerate any actions that prioritize private profit over the collective well-being of the Ghanaian people. He subsequently tasked Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings with leading the effort to protect Ghana’s natural resources and secure a healthier future for generations.
Further bolstering this stance, the President urged Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings to prioritize sound science, effective regulation, consistent enforcement, and the active involvement of affected communities in safeguarding Ghana’s natural heritage. He acknowledged the crucial role of environmental protection, stating it must be rooted in robust scientific principles, rigorous regulations, and proactive enforcement measures. The President also linked environmental degradation to public health, pointing to the detrimental effects of polluted rivers, contaminated soil, poor sanitation, unsafe air, and indiscriminate waste disposal on citizens’ well-being and increasing pressure on healthcare facilities. He noted that these consequences ultimately impact the health and well-being of the citizenry.
According to the President, Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings’ medical training undoubtedly equips her with the capacity to understand and address the human consequences of environmental destruction. He stated that her role as Minister necessitates a dual focus, encompassing both environmental and humanitarian responsibilities. The President stressed the imperative for close collaboration between traditional leaders, district assemblies, scientists, civil society organizations, and local communities to ensure the protection of Ghana’s natural resources. The administration intends to implement a comprehensive strategy involving rigorous monitoring, enforcement, and proactive engagement with all stakeholders to mitigate the current crisis and prevent future incidents. A recent report by the Ghana National Environmental Protection Authority (GNEPA) estimates that galamsey activities alone have already resulted in the loss of approximately 15,000 hectares of forest land and a significant reduction in water resources, impacting critical ecosystems and livelihoods. The President’s commitment to this challenge is being interpreted as a direct response to these escalating environmental concerns.
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Source: MyJoyOnline
