The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has issued a stern warning about the growing threat of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, cautioning that if the situation is not urgently addressed, it could “engulf the entire nation” and destroy Ghana’s future.
Speaking at the 29th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards Dinnerheld at theManhyia Palacein Kumasi, the Asantehene described the menace as a “mafia-like” operation that has spread dangerously, undermining the country’s environment, governance, and moral values.
“We are becoming more and more like a mafia situation, where if we are not very careful, it’s going to engulf all of us,” the Asantehene warned. “We have to take this issue very, very seriously. We joke about it or think it’s not serious, but it is.”
He questioned why successive governments and political leaders have failed to take decisive action against illegal mining, suggesting that political calculations and the pursuit of votes have prevented the needed bold steps.
“I have asked myself if it is because of politics, because of votes, that we cannot take firm decisions on these people,” he said. “Unless we are all complicit, there is no reason why this matter cannot be dealt with seriously.”
READ: Otumfuo calls for national action to save Ghana’s mainstream media
The Asantehene urged chiefs, local authorities, and the media to play active roles in exposing and resisting illegal mining activities in their jurisdictions.
He revealed that the problem continues to affect parts of his own traditional area and has directed his chiefs to take firm action to protect their lands from destruction.
Turning his attention to the media, Otumfuo commended journalists who have risked their safety to report on environmental degradation and corruption, noting that their work was crucial in promoting transparency and accountability.
He also praised President John Dramani Mahama’s renewed commitment to press freedom and media protection, as highlighted in the President’s address earlier in the evening. “You have the assurance that you will be protected,” the Asantehene said, urging the media to continue upholding professionalism and integrity.
READ: GJA President urges stronger national action against illegal mining, calls for ‘Manhyia Declaration’
The Asantehene expressed his appreciation to theGJA national and Ashanti regional executivesfor hosting this year’s awards in Kumasi, describing it as a great honor to the Ashanti Kingdom.
He disclosed that although the event coincided with traditional observances such as Dapaah and Sunday is also Akwasidae, he chose to personally attend because of his deep respect for the Association.
“The date chosen was traditionally wrong for me because today is Dapaa and tomorrow is Akwasidae,” he explained. “But because of how I hold the GJA in high esteem and close to my heart, I decided to attend.”
Commending the winners, the Asantehene said the diversity and professionalism displayed by award recipients, especially female journalists, was proof that the Association had a bright future.
He congratulated all awardees, including journalists from the Daily Graphic, Ghanaian Times, and the Ghana News Agency, for their achievements and dedication to credible journalism.
The 29th GJA Awards was held under the theme“Building Trust in Media for National Development”and attended by President Mahama, government officials, media practitioners, and traditional leaders.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh/Isaac Justice Bediako
