{
  "id": 16568026,
  "title": "Galamsey now threatens Ghana’s energy security",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/26/galamsey-now-threatens-ghanas-energy-security",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-26T06:33:38.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Ghanaian Times",
    "slug": "ghanaian-times",
    "url": "https://ghanaiantimes.com.gh/galamsey-now-threatens-ghanas-energy-security/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, has devastated Ghana's forests, polluted rivers and jeopardized community livelihoods. However, a new concern has emerged as reports suggest illegal miners are digging beneath gas pipelines operated by the Ghana National Gas Company Limited (Ghana Gas). This development poses a serious threat that cannot be ignored by the government, mining communities and the public. The General Manager of Engineering and Maintenance at Ghana Gas, Mr Maxwell Kwame Kelly, has sounded the alarm, stating that illegal miners are intruding on pipelines, particularly in the Western and Ashanti regions, putting crucial infrastructure at risk. He emphasized that galamsey is not only harming the environment but also jeopardizing energy production. The ramifications are grave, as Ghana relies on stable gas supplies for electricity generation and industrial activity. A damaged pipeline could disrupt this supply, impacting businesses, households and the economy, while repairs may take months, affecting electricity generation nationwide. It is now imperative that protecting gas pipelines becomes a core aspect of the fight against illegal mining. Authorities must not solely concentrate on polluted rivers, destroyed forests and degraded farmland while leaving vital energy infrastructure exposed. The Minerals Commission, security agencies, local authorities and Ghana Gas must enhance surveillance along pipeline corridors, identify illegal mining sites and take immediate action against those responsible. Increased patrols and monitoring systems with clear reporting protocols for suspicious activities are necessary. Law enforcement should consistently enforce the law against those who mine near gas infrastructure. Investigative efforts should also determine if landowners, financiers or influential figures are aiding such activities. Enforcement should target all involved parties, not just mining site workers. Community participation is equally critical. Residents near pipeline corridors must understand the dangers of digging in restricted zones and know how to report encroachments. Ghana Gas, under the guidance of Principal Manager for Health, Safety and Environment, Mr Jaasu Yahaya, should continue engaging traditional authorities, community leaders and residents, providing safety information as needed. The government must also prioritize strengthening the country's gas supply network. Ghana Gas is seeking approval and financing for a 278-kilometre, 20-inch high-pressure pipeline from the Western Region to Tema, expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2027. While this project could aid industrial development and job creation, it should be implemented alongside effective protection measures for existing and future infrastructure. The Ghanaian Times urges the government and all relevant institutions to treat this warning with the urgent attention it demands, acknowledging that protecting gas pipelines is a collective national responsibility.",
  "summary": "Illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, has already caused extensive damage to Ghana’s forests, polluted rivers and threatened the livelihoods of communities. Now, reports that illegal miners are digging beneath gas pipelines operated by the Ghana National Gas Company Limited (Ghana Gas) present another worrying dimension to the menace. This is a threat the country … The post Galamsey now…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}