By Nelson Ayivor
President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his government’s determination to confront illegal mining decisively, describing the protection of Ghana’s natural resources as a moral and generational obligation that must unite all citizens.
Speaking at the commissioning of 263 officer cadets into the Ghana Armed Forces, the President said the destruction caused by illegal mining remains one of the most serious environmental and economic threats facing the country.
Addressing the parade at the Ghana Military Academy, President Mahama reminded Ghanaians that the nation’s forests, rivers, and farmlands are a sacred trust held for present and future generations.
He noted that years of unregulated and unlawful mining activities have inflicted severe damage on critical water bodies and forest reserves, undermining livelihoods and public health.
According to him, the consequences of illegal mining extend beyond environmental degradation to affect food security, community stability, and long term national development.
The President said his administration responded to the crisis with the establishment of a joint national operation against illegal mining under the National Anti Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat.
This intervention, he explained, was not limited to enforcement alone but was designed as a comprehensive strategy combining strict law enforcement, public education, alternative livelihood programmes, technological support, and improved institutional coordination.
He emphasized that tackling illegal mining requires a holistic approach that addresses both the criminal networks involved and the socio economic factors that drive individuals into the practice.
“These measures are producing results. Forests and river bodies have been declared security zones. Permanent military bases have been established, and offenders have been arrested and are being prosecuted.”
Progress of Environmental Restoration
Highlighting progress on environmental restoration, the President said major rivers such as the Pra, Ankobra, and Offin are gradually showing signs of recovery. He attributed this to sustained enforcement actions and the disruption of illegal mining operations along their banks.
While acknowledging that full restoration will take time, he expressed confidence that the consistent application of government policies will yield lasting results.
The President used the occasion to stress that the fight against illegal mining will be pursued without fear or favour. He declared unequivocally that no individual or group would be shielded from accountability, regardless of their status or influence.
In his words, illegal mining will continue to be confronted decisively as part of a broader commitment to environmental protection and national development. However, he cautioned that government action alone would not be sufficient to win the battle.
Calling for national unity, President Mahama urged citizens, traditional leaders, local communities, civil society organisations, and the private sector to support the campaign against illegal mining. He described the struggle as a moral and civic responsibility that demands collective resolve.
According to him, every Ghanaian has a role to play in safeguarding the land, whether by refusing to participate in illegal activities, reporting offenders, or supporting lawful and sustainable economic alternatives.
Protection of Ghana’s Territory
The President linked the fight against illegal mining to the broader role of the Ghana Armed Forces in protecting the nation. He said the commissioning of the 263 officer cadets underscored the government’s resolve to maintain a disciplined and capable military that can respond to both traditional security threats and emerging challenges such as environmental crimes.
He praised the cadets for their commitment and reminded them that their oath of service includes defending the nation’s resources and supporting civil authorities in times of need.
President Mahama also emphasized that environmental security is inseparable from national security. He warned that unchecked environmental degradation can fuel conflict, displacement, and economic instability, particularly in vulnerable communities.
By integrating the Armed Forces into the fight against illegal mining, he said Ghana is strengthening its capacity to protect strategic assets and maintain social cohesion.
As the ceremony drew to a close, the President reiterated his call for solidarity in restoring Ghana’s environment. He appealed to the conscience of the nation, urging citizens to consider the legacy being left for future generations. Protecting the land, he said, is not merely a policy choice but a duty owed to children yet unborn.
The commissioning parade, which marked the transition of the cadets from training to active service, provided a fitting backdrop for the President’s message. It reinforced the idea that discipline, sacrifice, and national service are essential values not only for the military but for all citizens committed to building a sustainable and prosperous Ghana.
