Lands Minister: Fight against illegal mining is a marathon, not a sprint
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has reaffirmed the government’s long-term commitment to eradicating illegal mining, describing the effort as a “marathon, not a sprint.”
Speaking during the Government Accountability Series on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, on the update in the fight against illegal mining, the minister emphasised that while the fight is far from easy, the government remains focused and resolute in its mission to restore order and sustainability in Ghana’s mining sector.
“Let me make it clear that the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources is under no illusion that the fight against illegal mining is an easy one. We know that it is a marathon and not a sprint. We will definitely prevail in the end. I am very sure about that,” he said.
“We are clearly focused on ensuring that we win. We are also not against mining at all. In fact, we are doing everything possible to encourage responsible, sustainable mining.”
Mr. Buah also announced that the government has intensified its clampdown on illegal mining activities, leading to the seizure of 425 excavators and other mining machinery across the country.
As part of this operation, the Forestry Commission—which is actively supporting the anti-galamsey campaign—has seized additional equipment from illegal miners.
These include 177 excavators, 4 bulldozers, 12 vehicles, 43 motorcycles, 155 pumping machines, 184 changfangs, 15 gold detector machines, and 10 heavy-duty generators.
