Ghana’s outgoing president, Nana Akufo-Addo, shared a candid reflection on his administration’s battle against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, and the lasting impact it had on the country, including the 2024 elections.
In his final State of the Nation Address (SONA), Akufo-Addo sought to clarify misunderstandings surrounding his government’s stance on galamsey, responding to critics who believed the fight against illegal mining lacked urgency or commitment.
“I have always been firm in my stance against illegal mining,” he stated passionately. “I will not shy away from doing what is right for the future of this country, even if it costs us politically.”
The president acknowledged the significant political cost his party, the New Patriotic Party (NPP), paid as a result of his anti-galamsey position. He noted that several NPP Members of Parliament (MPs) were defeated in mining regions where illegal mining has deep roots and strong local support.
“We lost seats in regions where galamsey is prevalent because the people there believed we were taking away their livelihoods,” Akufo-Addo said.
“But I had to stand firm on this matter for the long-term prosperity of the nation. We cannot sacrifice our environment and the future of our children for short-term gains.”
Akufo-Addo made it clear that his campaign against galamsey was not an attack on mining as a whole. Rather, he stressed the importance of regulated and responsible mining.
“I have always said that mining, when done the right way, is an engine of economic growth,” he explained. “We must regulate it, ensure that it benefits the country, and protect our environment in the process. It’s about doing it the right way, and that is what we were committed to.”
Despite the political repercussions, Akufo-Addo remained resolute, and his administration’s efforts to combat illegal mining did not go unnoticed.
In fact, his government’s work helped Ghana surpass South Africa as the world’s leading gold exporter. “I am proud of this achievement,” the president said.
“It is a testament to the fact that with the right measures in place, we can lead the world in gold production while protecting our environment and future generations.”
The impact of the galamsey fight on the 2024 elections was a topic of great importance during Akufo-Addo’s final address.
While acknowledging the political fallout, he emphasized that his administration’s commitment to eradicating illegal mining was an investment in the future of Ghana.
“We are laying the foundation for a more sustainable and prosperous future for our children,” he remarked. “We cannot afford to compromise on this issue.”
Source: MyNewsGh.com
