President Nana Akufo-Addo emphasized that the fight against illegal mining (galamsey) is a national issue that requires collective action to protect Ghana’s natural resources, especially its water bodies and forests, for future generations.
His message was delivered by the Minister of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Stephen Asamoah Boateng, at a grand durbar marking the Odwira Festival in Akropong on Friday.
The Odwira Festival, celebrated annually in September or October by the people of Akuapem, commemorates their victory in the 1826 battle of Dodowa Forest. This year’s event, themed “Sustainable Development Through Patronage of Eco-Tourism and Environmental Health,” showcased rich cultural traditions such as drumming, dancing, and the procession of chiefs in palanquins. Attendees included traditional rulers, local government officials, and dignitaries.
In his speech, Akufo-Addo noted that the government has been battling illegal mining for over seven years and has intensified efforts to eradicate it from water bodies, farmlands, and forest reserves. He stressed that this fight should not be politicized, as it requires the support of all Ghanaians, especially traditional leaders, rather than being viewed through a political lens.
“This is not the time to give the galamsey fight a political color, suggesting that my administration is not handling the issue well. We are doing our best to control the situation, and there will be light at the end of the tunnel,” he said.
He further called for unity in the fight against illegal miners, emphasizing that the government cannot do it alone and needs everyone’s cooperation to restore the nation’s polluted rivers and degraded lands.
Akufo-Addo also highlighted the vital role of traditional rulers in this effort, urging them to actively support the government’s initiatives to stop illegal mining and safeguard the environment for future generations.
On the economy, the President acknowledged its challenges but noted that there are signs of improvement, and his administration remains committed to working in the best interests of the people.
Regarding the ongoing chieftaincy disputes in Akuapem, Akufo-Addo urged the chiefs to seek unity, as it is crucial for the area’s development. He expressed hope that by next year, all outstanding issues would be resolved peacefully.
The President also called on traditional leaders to promote peace before, during, and after the upcoming elections. Okuapehene, Oseadeeyo Kwasi Akuffo III, echoed this call for peaceful elections and thanked his people for their support in making the Odwira Festival a grand success.
