Ghana has issued a powerful call for renewed commitment and progressive reforms in the global diamond trade, urging members of the Kimberley Process (KP) to modernise the definition of conflict diamonds and address the evolving challenges facing diamond-producing communities. At the Kimberley Process Ministerial Meeting in Dubai, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GOLDBOD), Sammy Gyamfi, delivered Ghana’s official statement. He acknowledged the KP as one of the world’s most successful multilateral initiatives but cautioned that its mandate risked becoming outdated if long-overdue reforms continued to stall. Gyamfi highlighted that while overt armed conflicts in diamond-producing regions have diminished in recent years, many communities still face “the violence of exploitation, dispossession, and exclusion.” He stressed that modern conflict extends beyond traditional warfare, taking new and more subtle forms that must be addressed by the KP. He pointed out that the proposals before the KP to redefine “conflict diamonds” underscore a shared commitment among member states to protect vulnerable groups and uphold the credibility of the global certification scheme. What is needed now, he said, is decisive and collective action. “Consensus is at the heart of the Kimberley Process,” Gyamfi reminded delegates. “But consensus must be a path to progress, not a recipe for paralysis.” He warned that continued failure to agree on reforms would erode the KP’s moral authority and relevance. Advocating for a pragmatic approach, the CEO urged participating countries to seek common ground, listen to one another, and embrace reforms—even incremental ones—that would bolster the diamond supply chain’s integrity while supporting legitimate trade. He cautioned against allowing “the quest for perfection to become the enemy of meaningful incremental reform,” and called on delegates to ensure that history would remember this meeting for choosing renewal and cooperation over stagnation and self-interest. Ghana reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with all member states so that the Kimberley Process will continue to evolve, protect communities, promote ethical trade, and address the modern challenges facing the diamond industry. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

The fight against illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, has reached a decisive moment in Ghana, with calls for stronger and more aggressive interventions echoing across the nation. At the forefront of this battle is Colonel Robert Narh, National Anti-Galamsey Army Commander and head of the Ghana Army Combat Training School, who has urged the government to authorize bolder actions to bring an end to the devastation caused by galamsey operations. During a recent meeting with small-scale miners in the Upper Denkyira East Municipality of the Central Region, Colonel Narh spoke candidly with journalist Samuel Nana Tawiah about the escalating crisis. He emphasized the military’s readiness to take decisive action, even suggesting that a “shoot and kill” approach could be considered if illegal miners violently resist efforts to halt their operations. However, he was quick to add that such drastic measures would only proceed with explicit government approval. “There are already task forces reclaiming destroyed lands, and soon, Ghanaians will regain their water bodies,” Colonel Narh stated. He called on citizens to support the national effort to end the destruction of Ghana’s environment, adding, “Restoring our environment is a shared responsibility, and we all have a role to play.” Providing a regional update, the Central Regional Director of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), Mr. Kwesi Dawood, reported significant progress in the fight against illegal mining. According to Mr. Dawood, more than 1,000 acres of degraded land have been reclaimed in the Upper Denkyira East Municipality alone. These efforts, he explained, are not just about environmental restoration, but also about returning the land to productive use. Mr. Dawood noted a marked decline in the number of people engaging in illegal mining since the reclamation initiative began. In a positive development, there have been no recent reports of water bodies being siphoned for galamsey activities—a testament to the effectiveness of current interventions. “NADMO remains committed to sustaining the momentum and eliminating the menace across the Central Region,” he assured. The human cost of galamsey is starkly evident in the Upper Denkyira East Municipality. According to the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Mr. George Anane, over 27 residents have lost their lives after falling into abandoned mining pits left behind by illegal miners. These tragic incidents highlight the urgent need for comprehensive land reclamation and stronger regulatory enforcement. Mr. Anane pledged to intensify the campaign against illegal mining, emphasizing that the ongoing reclamation exercise will help prevent further tragedies while restoring the land for agriculture, housing, and other beneficial purposes. He warned that anyone found mining in protected areas—including forests and water bodies, would face arrest and prosecution. “We are committed to achieving zero galamsey in this municipality by the end of the year,” he declared, signaling a new era of accountability. Colonel Narh’s call for tougher measures has resonated with many in government and civil society, reflecting a growing consensus that bold action is necessary to end illegal mining for good. The current campaign brings together the military, NADMO, local government authorities, and community members in a coordinated effort that combines enforcement, land reclamation, and public engagement. The results are already visible in cleaner water bodies, reclaimed lands, and safer communities. Yet, officials caution that the fight is far from over. Sustained vigilance, public support, and the political will to empower security agencies with the necessary legal backing are all seen as critical to ensuring long-term success. As Ghana presses forward in the battle against galamsey, the stakes could not be higher. Illegal mining has not only devastated the natural environment but also claimed lives and threatened the country’s future prosperity. The government now faces mounting pressure to take decisive action, balancing the need for security with respect for human rights and the rule of law. With continued commitment and collaboration, the vision of a Ghana free from galamsey is within reach. For the communities of Upper Denkyira East and beyond, the promise of restored lands, clean water, and renewed hope offers a powerful incentive to persevere through to the end. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

In a sweeping crackdown on illegal mining, security forces made a decisive move in the Obuasi Municipality on Wednesday, arresting approximately 300 individuals suspected of engaging in galamsey operations. The joint operation, carried out by police and military personnel, targeted several communities notorious for their involvement in illegal mining activities, including Dadwen, Obuasi-Nhyiaeso, and Obuasi-Anwona. The large-scale raid was prompted by a recent attack on officials from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and journalists, who had been carrying out anti-illegal mining duties in the area. Authorities acted swiftly, assembling a coordinated force to restore order and send a clear message about the government’s resolve to combat galamsey. Before the operation commenced, the Director-General in charge of Technical, COP Dr. Sayibu Pabi Gariba, addressed the assembled security team on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, outlining the mission’s objectives and emphasizing the importance of professionalism and restraint. After the successful operation, all 300 suspects were transported under heavy security to the Kumasi Police Depot, also known as the Police Training School in Patase. There, they will undergo screening and further investigation to determine their individual roles in the illegal mining activities. Authorities have indicated that those found culpable will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. The swoop has been hailed as a significant step in the ongoing battle against illegal mining in Ghana, with many hoping it will deter future attacks on officials and signal a renewed commitment to protecting the country’s natural resources. Source: Apexnewsgh.com  

New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential hopeful, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, has urged the government to declare a nationwide 90-day suspension of all mining activities in an effort to restore Ghana’s severely polluted water bodies. Speaking to the media on Wednesday, October 15, Dr. Acheampong emphasized the need for bold and decisive action to protect the country’s natural resources, even if it entails significant financial sacrifice. “Everybody should stop mining in this country. Regardless of the financial consequences, we have to agree that for the next 90 days, during the rainy season, we should stop mining,” he declared. Dr. Acheampong clarified that his call was not for a state of emergency, but for a national consensus that would give the environment a chance to recover. “Let’s clear our water bodies and then engage on how we go back to mining. I am not talking about a state of emergency, but mining, regardless of where, should stop now,” he said. He likened the situation to trying to fix a moving train, insisting that a total halt is necessary before any meaningful repairs can be made. “We cannot repair the tyre or the truck of a moving train. As long as it is speeding, we need to agree to stop,” he added. Dr. Acheampong’s proposal comes amid rising public alarm over the devastating impact of illegal mining—known locally as galamsey—on Ghana’s rivers, forests, and rural communities. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

The National Security has issued a stern warning to chiefs, politicians, and opinion leaders in the Eastern Region, urging them to stay clear of the activities of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) as it launches its operations in the area. Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, October 13, Eastern Regional National Security Liaison Officer Francis Annor Dompreh cautioned that any traditional leader or politician who attempts to intervene or plead on behalf of individuals arrested for illegal mining will face arrest and prosecution themselves. “I keep emphasising, the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat was put together by the President himself, and they report directly to the President and the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources. The directive is clear: Let the waters be blue, clean, and drinkable, as they used to be. Let the forests be green again, at least,” he stated. Mr. Annor Dompreh stressed that the authorities would not recognize any chief or influential figure seeking to shield illegal mining operations. “We don’t know any chief. We don’t know anybody. What we know is the order: Get out! That is why I’m making this press conference. If you know you are a chief or whoever, and you have machines on the rivers or in the forest, you should pack up and leave.” He further warned that no matter the time of day, anyone attempting to intervene in anti-illegal mining activities would be dealt with decisively. “Don’t come here again, don’t go near there, because you are not going to be allowed. Whether you come in the morning, you come in the afternoon, you come in the night, you will be dealt with.” Mr. Annor Dompreh reiterated that the directive from the Presidency is explicit and must be respected by everyone, regardless of their status in society. The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), established under the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, is a special-purpose unit tasked with coordinating, monitoring, and leading intelligence-driven field operations against illegal mining (galamsey) activities across Ghana Source: Apexnewsgh.com

The Tetretem Royal Family of Duayaw-Nkwanta has accused the Tano North Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of unlawfully issuing mining permits to illegal miners, sparking a surge in galamsey activities on the Duayaw-Nkwanta Stool Lands and resulting in significant environmental degradation. In a strongly worded statement issued by Nana Asamaa Kofi Ofori Adu, the royal family condemned the MCE’s actions as both unlawful and irresponsible. “The Tano North Municipal Assembly issued Business Operating Licences to CAKROB Limited without the consent of the Ghana Minerals Commission and the Environmental Protection Agency,” the statement alleged. The family further claimed that the MCE, together with some sub-chiefs,including Nana Boakye II and Nana Nsowaa Diawuo Kokroko, collaborated to allow foreigners to engage in illegal mining operations. “Chinese, Senegalese and Guinean nationals are actively involved in mining activities in Adagyamem,” the statement asserted. Recalling the era of the late Nana Blakey Tromo III, the family noted that illegal mining was non-existent and that “Newmont Mining Company was the only officially approved operator then.” Calling for urgent intervention, the royal family appealed to the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, and regional authorities to step in and restore order. “We are calling for Otumfuo’s intervention to prevent violence and restore sanity to the Duayaw-Nkwanta Traditional Area,” the statement concluded. Source: Apexnewsgh.com