Civil Society Group Warns Mahama Over Galamsey State of Emergency

The Human Security Research Centre, Ghana (HSRC-Ghana), has advised President Mahama against declaring a state of emergency on galamsey due to potential risks to vulnerable citizens and human insecurity.

Despite not receiving an official invite to the high-level dialogue on illegal mining, HSRC-Ghana has shared strategic recommendations to address the issue. They propose designating forest reserves and riverine landscapes affected by galamsey as protected security zones to preserve ecosystems and prohibit destructive mining.

The organization emphasizes the importance of empowering local communities through alternative livelihoods, youth employment programs, and community-led environmental initiatives. They advocate for collaborative efforts between government, civil society, traditional leaders, and the private sector to develop policies promoting both environmental sustainability and socio-economic progress.

HSRC-Ghana stresses the need for intelligence-led law enforcement strategies that respect human rights to prevent further community tensions. They express hope that a holistic approach anchored in human security principles can effectively combat illegal mining and ensure the well-being of Ghanaian citizens.

Commending the President’s initiative to engage CSOs in addressing the galamsey crisis, HSRC-Ghana urges stakeholders to focus on long-term security and prosperity for all Ghanaians during the upcoming dialogue at Jubilee House on October 3, 2025.