President John Dramani Mahama has charged the newly sworn-in Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, to show strong and decisive leadership in tackling illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
According to the President, the wanton destruction of Ghana’s forests and water bodies by illegal miners poses one of the most serious threats to the country’s survival and demands firm action.
He made the call during the swearing-in ceremony for Dr Agyeman-Rawlings and Mahama Ayariga at the Presidency on Saturday, August 29, 2026.
President Mahama said the Environment Ministry must lead efforts to safeguard the country’s natural resources and ensure a healthier environment for generations to come.
“Your medical training provides a particularly important perspective. The environment is not separate from human health. Polluted rivers, contaminated soils, poor sanitation, unsafe air, and indiscriminate waste disposal eventually find expression in our hospitals and in the health of our people.
Your task, therefore, Honorable Minister, is both environmental and human. You must provide determined leadership to protect Ghana’s natural resources and secure a healthier future for generations yet unborn,” he stated.
The President assured that his government will continue to take firm action against individuals and groups who place private profit above the collective well-being of Ghanaians.
“The destruction of our forests and water bodies through illegal mining remains one of the gravest threats to our national survival,” President Mahama stressed.
