Minister for Environment, Science and Technology Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings has urged Ghanaians to stop advocating for the release of persons arrested for illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

Her position highlights the need for stronger enforcement of Ghana’s mining and environmental laws as illegal mining continues to threaten rivers, forests, farmlands and the livelihoods of communities across the country.

Dr Zanetor has called for a more coordinated approach involving security agencies, environmental authorities and local institutions to ensure that those suspected of breaking the law go through the appropriate legal process.

Zanetor Pushes for Tougher Action Against Galamsey

The minister has emphasised the importance of taking decisive action against illegal mining activities, particularly in areas where mining operations are causing environmental damage.

During a visit to Osino in the Eastern Region, she raised concerns about illegal mining near the Birim River and the need to protect areas undergoing land reclamation.

She also called on the Eastern Regional Security Council to strengthen enforcement efforts and work with the relevant agencies to prevent further environmental destruction.

The minister stressed the importance of ensuring that areas targeted for restoration are protected from renewed illegal mining activities.

Minister Calls for Faster Environmental Prosecutions

Dr Zanetor has also advocated for the establishment of fast-track environmental courts to speed up the handling of cases involving environmental offences.

The proposal is intended to help address delays in prosecuting cases and strengthen accountability for activities that damage the environment.

Illegal mining has become a major concern because of its potential impact on water quality, public health and the long-term sustainability of Ghana’s natural resources.

Chemicals such as mercury and cyanide, when improperly handled during mining operations, can contaminate the environment and pose serious risks to people and wildlife.

Faster legal proceedings, supported by effective investigations, could help ensure that cases involving alleged environmental violations are resolved more efficiently.

Galamsey Threatens Rivers and Communities

Illegal mining continues to raise concerns across Ghana because of the damage it can cause to water bodies, forests and agricultural lands.

When rivers become polluted, communities that depend on them for drinking water, farming and other economic activities may face serious difficulties.

Environmental degradation can also increase the cost of water treatment, destroy habitats and leave affected lands difficult to restore.

These consequences have strengthened calls for a sustained national response that combines law enforcement, environmental restoration, public education and responsible mining practices.

Accountability Must Follow Arrests

Arresting suspected illegal miners is only one part of the process. Investigations must be conducted properly, evidence must be presented in court, and cases must be handled in accordance with the law.

Suspects are entitled to a fair trial, while anyone found guilty must face the penalties provided by law.

The challenge for authorities is to ensure that environmental laws are enforced consistently and that investigations lead to meaningful legal outcomes where the evidence supports prosecution.

Dr Zanetor’s position adds to the ongoing debate about how Ghana can strengthen its response to illegal mining and protect its natural resources.

Ghana’s Fight Against Galamsey Continues

The fight against galamsey remains an important national issue because of its implications for clean water, public health, agriculture and future generations.

Stronger enforcement, faster prosecution and effective cooperation among state institutions will be critical to addressing the problem.

As calls for action continue, the central challenge remains ensuring that Ghana’s environmental laws are applied fairly and consistently while degraded lands and polluted water bodies receive the attention needed for restoration.

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