President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Mr. Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has called on President John Dramani Mahama to issue a bold national policy statement, what he termed the “Manhyia Declaration”, to reaffirm Ghana’s commitment to ending illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, once and for all.
Speaking at the 2025 GJA National Media Awards held at the Manhyia Palace under the theme, “Self-Guarding Ghana: The Role of the Media in Promoting Security and Peace,” Mr. Dwumfour described the galamsey menace as a full-blown national security crisis, warning that illegal miners have become “bolder, more daring, and increasingly violent.”
“Galamsey is no longer just an environmental problem; it has become a threat to national security,” Mr. Dwumfour stated.
“The time to act decisively and send a clear message that impunity will not be tolerated is now.”
Journalists Injured in Galamsey Coverage
Mr. Dwumfour expressed sadness that some journalists could not attend the event because they were fighting for their lives after being involved in an accident while covering illegal mining operations in the Ashanti Region alongside officials of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA).
He assured that the GJA would collaborate with the National Security Secretariat and other relevant agencies to ensure that the affected journalists receive urgent medical attention and welfare support.
“We stand in solidarity with our colleagues who were injured while pursuing the national interest,” he said. “This incident reminds us of the grave risks journalists face when exposing the destruction caused by illegal mining.”
Condemnation of Attacks on EPA and Security Personnel
The GJA President also condemned recent armed attacks on EPA enforcement teams by illegal miners, describing the assaults as “cowardly and treasonous acts” that undermine the authority of the state and the rule of law.
“This outrageous act is not only a direct assault on hardworking officers but also a grave attack on Ghana’s collective resolve to protect its environment and secure the future of generations yet unborn,” he said.
Mr. Dwumfour called on the Ghana Police Service to update the nation on ongoing investigations and ensure that perpetrators are arrested and prosecuted without delay.
“Anything short of swift and firm justice will embolden lawlessness and erode public confidence in the state’s ability to protect those who serve the national interest,” he warned.
A Call for Renewed National Commitment
Commending the President for his engagement with civil society organizations on anti-galamsey initiatives, Mr. Dwumfour said more decisive and symbolic actions were needed to restore confidence in the government’s fight.
“Mr. President, the time has come for a bold, symbolic step that communicates to Ghanaians and the world that this government is fully committed to winning the war against galamsey,” he urged.
“A ‘Manhyia Declaration’ made here, in the presence of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, would carry both moral and political weight and reassure the nation that the government’s eyes remain firmly on the ball.”
Funding and Media Partnership
Citing the latest Auditor-General’s report, Mr. Dwumfour suggested that surcharge monies recovered from financial mismanagement be redirected into anti-galamsey operations.
He proposed using the funds to strengthen the Environmental Protection Agency, better equip security task forces, and support journalists reporting from the frontlines of environmental degradation.
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The GJA President further called for joint operations between the National Security Ministry and the media, led by the GJA, to enhance transparency and ensure public accountability in the anti-galamsey fight.
“We must wake up as a nation before it is too late,” he said. “The fight against galamsey requires all hands on deck; government, security agencies, civil society, and the media.”
Background
The GJA National Media Awards is the flagship event of the Ghana Journalists Association, honoring excellence and professionalism in journalism.
This year’s ceremony, held at the Manhyia Palace, celebrated the role of the media in national development, with a special focus on peacebuilding and environmental protection.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh/Isaac Justice Bediako
