The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has issued an urgent directive ordering the cessation of all mining activities in and around water bodies across Ghana.

This follows growing concerns over the environmental degradation caused by illegal mining (galamsey) and unauthorised operations that threaten the country’s ecosystems and public health.

In a statement signed by Acting Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Nana Ama Browne Klutse, the EPA noted that mining activities must strictly comply with Ghana’s environmental laws, including obtaining the necessary permits and implementing sustainable mining practices.

"In accordance with Section 2 and 3b(ii) of the Environmental Protection Act, 2025 (Act 1124), the EPA, hereby issues this urgent directive to all individuals and entities involved in illegal mining (galamsey) and other unauthorised operations in water bodies, both small-scale and large-scale, and are instructed to cease all activities with immediate effect," portions of the release indicated.

To ensure compliance with the directive, the release noted that the EPA, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Science, and Technology (MEST), the Minerals Commission, the Water Resources Commission, and security agencies, will: Seize equipment used in illegal mining operations, intensify surveillance and inspections of mining sites and prosecute individuals and organizations violating environmental laws.

The public is also encouraged to report illegal mining activities via the EPA hotline 0506699466 / 0506694760.

Prof. Klutse reaffirmed the EPA’s commitment to safeguarding Ghana’s environment for current and future generations, urging all citizens and stakeholders to support the fight against illegal mining.

“Together, we can protect our water bodies and secure a healthier and more prosperous future for all Ghanaians,” she stressed.