Local Government Ministry, MMDCEs are responsible for stopping “galamsey” – Mahama Ayariga
By Rebecca Ampah The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, has declared that stopping illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, is the responsibility of the ministry and heads of local authorities. He says Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) must take ownership of efforts to stop illegal mining in their […]
Mahama Ayariga, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, has emphasized that the responsibility of combating illegal mining, also known as galamsey, lies with the Ministry of Local Government and the heads of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs). He believes that tackling the issue is a mandate and responsibility of local authorities governing the affected areas.
Ayariga stated that while the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation are responsible for mining and environmental protection respectively, the involvement of local authorities is crucial for sustaining the fight against galamsey. He acknowledged that the president's actions, such as deploying the military, may not be sufficient to address the problem without local authorities taking charge.
To foster collaboration, Ayariga announced a conference in Kumasi on November 2, 2026, where representatives from the three ministries and local government authorities will work together to develop a concerted strategy to combat illegal small-scale mining.
Written by urgent.news from GBC Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
