9 hours Ago By Ghana News
President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has reiterated the association’s firm stance against illegal mining, urging the government to take decisive action to combat the menace. Speaking at a news conference held at the Ghana International Press Centre on March 13, 2025, he emphasized the need for strict enforcement of mining laws while calling on journalists to play their part in preserving Ghana’s heritage. “Ladies and gentlemen, the galamsey menace is still with us.
Our forest reserves, water bodies, and farmlands are being destroyed and degraded with reckless abandon, all in the name of gold mining. “In the mining communities, law and order are crumbling under the weight of impunity, with associated human rights abuses, adverse and forced possession of individual lands and farms while the decentralized administrative arms of government and traditional authorities seem to be helpless,” he said. He commended the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources for its commitment to addressing the threats posed by illegal mining but urged continued vigilance.
“The GJA commends the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources for its statement on the attacks on journalists and its assurance of working to check illegal mining and support for journalists to continue shedding light on the illegal mining activities. We, however, entreat the Ministry not to relent in its efforts to end galamsey, as the GJA will be monitoring its actions and inactions towards the fight,” he added. Dwumfour also welcomed the assurances given by President John Dramani Mahama in tackling illegal mining and expressed the GJA’s readiness to support the government in this mission.
“We welcome the assurances and commitment of President Mahama towards the fight against galamsey, and it is our prayer that he will not relent or give up but honour his promise of stopping illegal mining in the country. He can count on the full support of the GJA and the Media Coalition in ending this life-threatening canker. Mr.
President, the time to act is NOW!!!” The GJA President further highlighted the significance of March as Ghana’s National Heritage Month, urging media practitioners to use their platforms to promote and safeguard the country’s cultural identity. “The media plays a vital role in shaping our national identity and promoting our cultural diversity. Through our various platforms, let us use the power of the media to reach millions of people by educating and enlightening them about our heritage.
It is our duty to promote our heritage.”.
