The Trades Union Congress (TUC) Chairman, Bernard Owusu, has urged swift and lasting national efforts to halt illegal mining, known as galamsey, warning that Ghana could forfeit key environmental and economic progress if the menace persists.
He spoke at the 2026 May Day event held at Jackson’s Park in Koforidua on Friday, 1 May 2026, which drew workers, union leaders, state officials and government reps.
President John Dramani Mahama also attended. Addressing the crowd, Mr. Owusu said illegal mining remained a grave national danger despite years of action.
He cautioned that further environmental damage would deepen joblessness and economic strain, pressing authorities to boost enforcement and guard natural assets.
The TUC restated its firm stance demanding tougher steps against illegal mining, calling it vital to protect Ghana’s future growth and workers’ well-being.
“The issue of galamsey still remains a menace and must stop now. Despite ongoing reforms, we are losing this fight and we cannot and we cannot afford to lose our future. When rivers die, industries, agriculture, investment and jobs all decline leaving the Ghanaian worker to bear the cost. This is why our stance on galamsey remains uncompromised,” he said.
