Political commentator and NPP Communications Team member, George Kwarteng Adenta, has raised serious concerns about the worsening galamsey situation in Ghana. He warned that if the illegal mining menace continues, it could eventually reach the Jubilee House itself.
In a Facebook post, Kwarteng wrote, “By the time John Mahama finishes his 4-year term, galamsey will have even reached the Jubilee House. Lord have mercy.” His message has since drawn public attention, reflecting the growing frustration of many Ghanaians over the government’s struggle to stop illegal mining.
Recent reports show that galamsey is spreading faster than ever, destroying rivers, farms, and food crops. Rivers like Pra, Ankobra, Birim, and Offin are said to be heavily polluted with mercury and cyanide, making the water unsafe for drinking and farming. Experts warn that many food crops such as kontomire, coconuts, and mangoes are now contaminated with dangerous chemicals that can cause cancer, brain damage, and other serious health problems.
The situation is also affecting industries that rely on clean water. Polluted rivers have disrupted operations, and the once small-scale mining has turned into large, organized, and often violent operations. Reports say armed groups now control several galamsey sites, creating a major national security threat.
According to sources, Ghana loses over $2.4 billion every year due to illegal miners who evade taxes and royalties. In addition, thousands of cocoa farms have been destroyed, threatening the country’s agriculture and export revenue.
Galamsey, which used to be common in the Western, Ashanti, and Eastern regions, has now spread to at least 15 regions, including Northern, Bono, Bono East, Savannah, and Oti. Analysts say the rise in gold prices and high youth unemployment are driving more people into illegal mining.