The Media Coalition Against Galamsey has called on President John Mahama to declare a state of emergency over the country’s polluted water bodies and deploy the military to remove all individuals found mining in these areas.

According to the convenor of the coalition, Ken Ashigbey, this action is necessary because the efforts made to combat illegal mining in the lead-up to the new year, 2025, have yielded no positive results, and instead, the situation has worsened.

“The President must declare a state of emergency over our water bodies and deploy the military to clear all those involved in illegal mining on these bodies of water,” Mr Ashigbey stated in a press release issued on Monday, January 20.

"Mining on water bodies is illegal, and it must be stopped,” he added.

He stated that “All planned and active mining concessions overlapping with river buffers should be abrogated, and all mining activities within 100 metres of rivers and streams should be immediately halted by the President. Should the President fail to act, he must implement the full force of Act 995 without fear or favour of political affiliation or status. Almost all water bodies originate from forest reserves, so all entry permits granted for mining in globally significant biodiversity areas (GSBAs) must also be revoked.”

The coalition expressed concern over the worsening situation, noting that since the December 2024 elections, the problem has escalated. They lamented that the perpetrators have exploited perceived leadership and governmental silence, leading to an increase in illegal mining activities.

The tragic incidents at Ntrotroso and Obuasi a few days ago, regardless of the outcome of an independent investigation called for by President Mahama, are a stark reminder that this problem is a severe threat to national security and cohesion.

“We are counting on the new government to honour the promises made during the 2024 election campaign to address this issue,” the coalition added.

While the coalition acknowledged the government’s mention of tackling galamsey in its first 120-day agenda, they expressed concern over the slow pace of action. They have formally written the President, urging an immediate "CEASE-AND-DESIST ORDER for all illegal miners and regulatory bodies.

They stressed that this decisive action is crucial to demonstrate the government’s commitment to combating the menace and protecting the environment, especially as comprehensive strategies are being developed".

The coalition also emphasised the need for the public to remain committed to the fight against galamsey and announced plans to launch additional advocacy initiatives in the coming weeks.

“We urge all Ghanaians and political leaders to remain steadfast in this fight. The urgency of addressing this issue is greater than ever,” they concluded.