Mr. Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) called on President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to address illegal small-scale mining (galamsey) before the end of his term. He emphasized the need for urgent action, particularly through the strict enforcement of mining laws and the prosecution of individuals involved in illegal mining activities.
Speaking at the 28th GJA Media Awards in Accra, Mr. Dwumfour urged the President to declare a state of emergency on all water bodies, where pollution from galamsey has severely impacted ecosystems. He recommended that mining along water buffers be halted immediately to curb the destruction of the country’s natural resources.
“We are aware that some time ago, Mr. President made a firm vow to stop galamsey, but regrettably, that promise has not been fulfilled. Mr. President, you have barely three months until the end of the administration, and we are hopeful that you will deal with the situation before you leave office,” he stated.
The GJA President’s call comes against the backdrop of worsening environmental conditions caused by illegal mining, which has resulted in the pollution of major water bodies and loss of forest cover across the country.
Mr. Dwumfour also called on the flagbearers of the two leading political parties—the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC)—to make a firm and final commitment to eradicating galamsey as part of their campaigns for the 2024 elections. He noted that such pledges would allow citizens to hold whichever candidate wins accountable once they assume office in 2025.
At the same event, Mr. Dwumfour criticized the decision to remand members of the pressure group Democracy Hub, who had been arrested following a three-day protest against illegal mining. While he acknowledged the importance of law enforcement maintaining order, he argued that the two-week remand of the protesters was excessive and did not send a positive signal regarding the protection of human rights. He expressed concern over the remand decision, stating that it was too extreme and urged the authorities to respect the rights of citizens to demonstrate and express their concerns freely.
“We commend the Ghana Police Service for their professionalism during the demonstrations, but the decision to remand the protesters for two weeks is too harsh. Citizens must be allowed to protest while following the law, and their rights must be respected,” he emphasized.
The awards ceremony, which marked the climax of the GJA’s 75th Anniversary celebrations, was themed: “75 Years of Excellence in Journalism: The Role of the Media in Democratic Governance and Elections.” The event was a platform to recognize outstanding contributions to journalism and promote the media’s role in supporting democratic processes in Ghana.
During the ceremony, the GJA also honored the memory of the late Godwin Avenorgbo, a veteran journalist and a member of the 75th Anniversary Planning Committee, who passed away in August 2024. In recognition of his contributions, the GJA renamed its Arts and Entertainment award category after him.
