President John Dramani Mahama has vowed to tackle illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, decisively and without fear or favour, urging all Ghanaians to protect the nation’s rivers and forests.

Speaking at a graduation ceremony at the Ghana Military Academy on January 30, the president said the government has taken strong security and enforcement measures to protect the country’s forests and water bodies from further destruction.

According to him, several forest reserves and major river bodies have been declared security zones, with permanent military bases established in key affected areas to deter illegal mining activities.

“Forests and river bodies have been declared security zones. Permanent military bases have been established, and offenders have been arrested and are being prosecuted,” President Mahama stated.

He noted that government interventions are already yielding results, with some polluted rivers showing signs of recovery.

“Rivers such as the Pra, Ankobra, and Offin are gradually recovering,” he said.

The president stressed that the fight against galamsey remains a top national priority and will not be compromised under any circumstances.

“Let me be clear, illegal mining will continue to be confronted decisively and without fear or favour,” he declared.

However, President Mahama emphasised that winning the battle against illegal mining requires collective national effort, describing the fight as a shared responsibility that goes beyond government alone.

“This fight requires national unity. It is a moral, civic, and generational duty, and I call on all Ghanaians to stand together to restore and protect our land,” he said.

President Mahama reiterated that his administration remains resolute in restoring Ghana’s environment and safeguarding natural resources for present and future generations.