GJA President Urges Patience as Government Faces Tough Battle Against Galamsey

President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has urged Ghanaians to exercise patience with the government as it continues efforts to curb illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, despite the worsening state of the problem.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme, Mr. Dwumfour admitted that illegal mining appears to be deepening in several parts of the country but appealed to citizens to allow the government more time to demonstrate tangible results.

“The fight against galamsey is getting worse, but we should give the government some time before holding them accountable,” he noted. “This is a complex challenge that demands coordination, discipline, and persistence, not just quick fixes.”

Mr. Dwumfour highlighted the pivotal role of the media in the fight against illegal mining, pointing to the continuous advocacy and public awareness led by the Media Coalition Against Galamsey. He said journalists have been instrumental in uncovering environmental destruction, promoting sustainable mining practices, and keeping the issue in the national conversation.

“At our last media engagement with the President and civil society, he reaffirmed his commitment to end galamsey. We, as the media, can intensify follow-ups and ensure consistent reporting on what’s really happening on the ground,” he explained.

The GJA President also reacted to recent reports of an attack on a director of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Squad (NAIMOS), describing it as a disturbing sign of the deep-rooted resistance confronting the national campaign.

“For a NAIMOS director to be attacked shows we are not fully ready for this fight. It underscores how dangerous the galamsey networks have become,” he lamented.

Mr. Dwumfour, however, reaffirmed the Association’s resolve to support credible, responsible journalism that contributes to national development. He called on media practitioners to remain fearless but ethical in their coverage, while promoting unity in the ongoing war against illegal mining.