Mahama vows ‘no mercy for illegal miners’

By Kizito CUDJOE

Government has vowed to clamp down on illegal mining, calling it a direct threat to the country’s economy and environment, following its widespread devastation across mining regions.

President John Dramani Mahama, in a speech read on his behalf during the Association of China-Ghana Mining’s (ACGM) inauguration in Accra, described the practice as a form of “environmental terrorism” and warned that the state will show no mercy to offenders.

“We consider illegal mining as an act of economic sabotage – one that devastates livelihoods, poisons our water-bodies and degrades our lands,” he stressed.

Against this backdrop, he said, there will be no leniency, no exception and no comfort for those who flout the country’s laws, regardless of nationality, political ties or business clout – adding, “The full force of our laws will be brought to bear”.

President Mahama therefore entreated the Association to steer its members toward strict compliance with Ghana’s mining laws and regulations.

“The Association must serve as a beacon of integrity, ensuring that its members operate within the set legal frameworks of our country, uphold environmental standards, uplift local communities and contribute positively to our nation’s sustainable development agenda.”

President Mahama reaffirmed government’s commitment to working closely with ACGM to enhance and streamline Chinese investment in Ghana’s mining sector.

“Through structured cooperation, we can unlock new opportunities while ensuring that mining activities align with Ghana’s broader developmental and sustainability goals,” he noted.

Furthermore, he emphasised the importance of leveraging China’s expertise in underground mining, low-grade ore development and mining-related technical training to boost efficiency and global competitiveness in Ghana’s mining industry.

“By integrating these advancements, we can build a mining sector that is both economically robust and environmentally sustainable,” he added.

President Mahama was the Guest Honour at the event, represented by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah.

Also speaking at the ceremony, Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, Tong Defa, commended the of the Association’s formation – describing it as a bridge for mutually beneficial cooperation and an important platform for dialogue between governments, businesses and local communities.

“I urge the Association to help Chinese enterprises better integrate into the local market, enhance the quality of collaboration and ensure that our cooperation yields win-win outcomes,” the Ambassador said.

He also encouraged ACGM to focus on job creation, value addition to minerals and community development.

The Chairman of ACGM, Mr. Tang Zhenjiang, in his inaugural remarks outlined the Association’s vision to move beyond profit and serve as a catalyst for positive transformation in Ghana’s mining sector.

“Through this Association, we will unify industry consensus, integrate resources, uphold our social responsibilities and benefit community development,” he stated.

“Together, we will write a new chapter in China-Ghana collaboration and further strengthen the enduring friendship between our nations.”

Mr. Tang Zhenjiang also reaffirmed ACGM’s support for national development programmes, including the Youth in Mining Initiative led by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment.

ACGM pledged to drive capacity building and skills transfer for Ghanaian youth through technical exchanges and collaborative projects.

The ACGM brings together leading Chinese mining enterprises operating in Ghana, including Cardinal Namdini Mining Ltd. (a subsidiary of Shandong Gold Group), Golden Star (Wassa) Ltd. (a subsidiary of Chifeng Gold Group) and other established companies.

As a non-profit platform, the Association aims to promote shared growth, responsible mining practices, community development and technology transfer between China and Ghana.

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