President John Mahama has praised the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi-Buah and the anti-illegal mining task force for what he described as encouraging progress in Ghana’s long-running fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

Speaking at the 77th Annual New Year School at the University of Ghana, President Mahama said early signs of environmental recovery, particularly the gradual clearing of polluted rivers, show that the difficult campaign against galamsey is beginning to yield results.

“I want to commend the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources in the fight against galamsey,” the President said, acknowledging the work of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), the Environmental Protection Agency, and other stakeholders involved in enforcement.

President Mahama admitted that the battle against illegal mining has been far from easy, noting that the practice has become deeply entrenched in some communities, sometimes leading to resistance and violent attacks on enforcement teams.

“It has so entered the fabric of our people that it’s not been an easy fight. Communities have mobilised to attack the task force when they have gone to enforce the ban,” he said.

“So I’ll encourage the task force, the Minister, the EPA, all of those involved, please don’t give up.”

The President recounted a recent visit to the Crown Forest area, where he observed visible improvements in the condition of the Ayensu River.

“When I asked about the river, they told me that six months ago the water was the colour of coffee. Today, it is the colour of light milo,” President Mahama said, attributing the improvement to the work of river guards and upstream operations by anti-galamsey teams.

He urged the Lands Ministry and its partners to intensify their efforts, stressing that environmental protection remains central to his administration’s development agenda.

“We’re implementing sustainable mining practices, protecting forests and water bodies, investing in renewable energy, and strengthening climate adaptation for vulnerable communities,” the President stated, adding that the visible gains should serve as motivation to strengthen the fight rather than relent.