Key Points
- Ghana needs $120 million to restore land affected by galamsey.
- The government faces difficulty raising funds due to economic constraints.
- Security challenges involve armed foreign mercenaries protecting mining operations.
Ghana is facing a significant challenge to restore 3,000 hectares of land destroyed by galamsey, or illegal mining. According to Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, the convener of the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining, the restoration will cost about $120 million.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on April 16, 2025, Ashigbey explained that each hectare of land would require at least $40,000 to repair.
The restoration cost is steep, and this presents a major hurdle for the government. As Ghana grapples with many other financial obligations, it becomes difficult to secure funds for this environmental recovery.
The $120 million needed to address just 3,000 hectares of land is more than what the country can afford at the moment.
Funding challenges for land reclamation
The country’s economic situation raises concerns about where the money will come from to fund land restoration. Ghana already struggles with maintaining its economic stability.
State-owned enterprises are working to stabilize the economy, and the government has limited resources for additional environmental projects.
Ashigbey emphasized that this problem is compounded by the government’s ongoing struggles. He stated, “How will Ghana fund $120 million for land reclamation when we are already struggling?”
The money required for land restoration is substantial, and Ghana simply doesn’t have it. The country faces a clear financial challenge.
Security issues complicate enforcement
The fight against galamsey is not only an economic problem; it’s also a security issue. Ashigbey pointed out that illegal mining operations are often protected by armed groups, including foreign mercenaries.
These groups operate with military-grade weapons and intimidate law enforcement and forestry officials. Despite efforts from security agencies, illegal miners continue their operations.
Ashigbey called on the government to take stronger action. “We need to militarize forest protection,” he argued.
He urged President John Mahama to declare a state of emergency in the affected areas and to create a dedicated force to tackle illegal mining.
“We cannot let these foreign mercenaries continue,” he added. The fight against galamsey requires a full commitment from the government to secure the country’s land and environment.
