Gov’t galamsey claims don’t match reality on the ground – A Rocha Ghana

Deputy Director of A Rocha Ghana, Daryl Bosu, has challenged the government’s claims of progress in the fight against illegal mining, insisting they do not reflect the harsh realities faced by affected communities.

Speaking after a stakeholder meeting between President John Dramani Mahama and civil society organisations in Accra on Friday, October 3, Bosu said the situation on the ground is far worse than the picture presented during the engagement.

“If we are being honest, the experiences of communities tell a different story. People face constant frustration and intimidation from illegal miners. What we saw and heard today does not truly capture the pain and struggles of those living with the consequences of galamsey,” he stressed.

Bosu highlighted the continued pollution of rivers, the shutdown of water treatment plants, and the unchecked intimidation of locals by illegal miners as clear evidence that the crisis persists.

“The reality is that water pollution, collapsing treatment facilities, and intimidation are still widespread. Whatever government says it is doing must begin to show in actual improvements in these communities,” he added.

The stakeholder meeting formed part of broader national efforts to engage civil society and environmental groups in shaping stronger policies and accountability measures against illegal mining.