The Acting Managing Director of the Precious Minerals Marketing Company, Sammy Gyamfi, has reiterated that tackling illegal mining remains the top priority for the Mahama government.

Speaking to JoyNews's reporter Kwaku Asante, he emphasised that the fight against illegal mining goes beyond just financial allocations.

He said, “Fighting illegal mining requires more than budgetary allocations. What has been missing for the past eight years is the political will to confront those engaged in illegal mining. This is essential to act as a deterrent to others. Under the current NDC Mahama government, it’s not about what the NPP says; it’s about the facts.”

Mr. Gyamfi pointed to concrete actions taken by the government, stating, “Over 10 forest reserves have been secured, which previously served as safe havens for galamsey operators linked to the NPP. Today, there are no safe havens left for them. These areas are now designated as no-go zones.”

He highlighted that the government’s decisive action, even before the Anti-Galamsey Law is fully repealed, demonstrates its strong commitment to the fight.

Reflecting on his role in leading the NDC’s opposition against illegal mining, Gyamfi noted his long-standing criticism of the NPP’s efforts, which he described as a “charade.” He said, “I am impressed with the significant strides the Mahama government has made in combating illegal mining so far.”

However, Mr. Gyamfi acknowledged that there is still work to be done.

“There is still room for improvement, and we have a long way to go,” he admitted. “But where there is a political will, there is always a way".

"The political will is evident, he said and that is all we need to succeed in this fight" he concluded.