The Member of Parliament for Bodi Constituency, Sampson Ahi, says the ultimate priority in Ghana’s mining sector is clear — stopping illegal mining — and insists significant progress has been made under President John Dramani Mahama.
According to Ahi, illegal small-scale mining, popularly known as galamsey, has reduced dramatically compared to what he describes as its widespread prevalence during the administration of former President Nana Akufo-Addo.
The Bodi MP revealed that he takes a hands-on approach in his constituency. Whenever he receives intelligence about illegal mining activities, he personally contacts the military to intervene and make arrests.
He stressed that President Mahama is uncompromising in the fight against galamsey and does not shield anyone — including his own appointees — who defy directives aimed at protecting the environment.
“If you are an appointee and you joke with his directive, you won’t get it easy at all. He will not cover you,” Ahi emphasized.
Ahi pointed to visible improvements in the condition of the Ankobra River as evidence that enforcement efforts are yielding results. He argued that under the previous administration, water bodies were heavily polluted and illegal mining had spread uncontrollably — from open communities to residential areas.
He contrasted that period with what he describes as a more decisive and disciplined approach under Mahama’s leadership.
The MP maintained that regardless of political affiliation, the national interest demands firm action against illegal mining to safeguard Ghana’s water bodies and forest reserves.
His remarks add to the ongoing national conversation over which administration has demonstrated stronger political will in tackling one of the country’s most pressing environmental challenges.
Story: Nyamebeye Kofi Ansah Sasraku