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The Ghana Ankobra River galamsey crisis has become a major topic of discussion because of the damage caused by illegal gold mining. Recent videos show the river filled with thick mud and sediment, raising concerns about water pollution and harm to aquatic life.
The pollution also threatens farmers and other people who depend on the river and nearby coastal areas for their livelihoods in Ghana’s Western Region. As public concern grows, government officials and other stakeholders are discussing ways to restore the river and control illegal mining.
Ghana Gold Board Chief Executive Officer Sammy Gyamfi has explained the government’s plans to regulate miners operating without formal licences under certain conditions. The proposal would allow them to operate legally if they stay away from protected water bodies, forest reserves, and roadsides.
Ghana Ankobra River galamsey crisis
However, the proposal has faced criticism from civil society groups, environmental activists, and concerned citizens. Critics argue that allowing illegal miners to become legal operators without strict checks could encourage more illegal mining. They have called on the government to review the plan and enforce existing mining laws more strictly.
In response to concerns about environmental damage caused by the Ghana Ankobra River galamsey crisis, the government has highlighted plans to restore land affected by illegal mining. The plans include a reported GH¢200 million project to reclaim 5,000 acres of damaged land starting in 2027. Officials have also reported progress in cleaning up some affected areas.
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