Ghana should take galamsey ‘significantly’ to win the struggle – Chinese Ambassador – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

On December 11, 2025, the Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Tong Defa, delivered a powerful and timely message during the Ghana News Agency’s workshop on “Green Mining: Best Practices for Responsible Reporting.” He emphasized that Ghana must treat the illegal mining crisis—known locally as galamsey—seriously and with sustained national commitment to effectively combat its devastating effects. This statement comes amid growing concern over the environmental degradation caused by galamsey, which has polluted rivers, damaged agricultural lands, and threatened public health across the country. The Ambassador’s remarks highlighted that while China is ready to support Ghana through technology transfer and cooperation, the ultimate responsibility lies with Ghana’s government and citizens to enforce laws and maintain political will. This article breaks down the key points of his address, analyzes the broader context of the galamsey crisis, and offers practical advice for stakeholders seeking sustainable solutions.

Key Points

China Supports Ghana’s Anti-Galamsey Campaign

The Chinese Embassy reaffirmed its full support for Ghana’s efforts to curb illegal mining. Ambassador Defa stressed that Chinese nationals abroad are expected to follow local laws and that China backs legal prosecution for any of its citizens involved in illegal activities.

A Serious, National Approach is Essential

The Ambassador warned that without a serious, coordinated national effort, the problem of galamsey will persist. He noted that half-measures and lack of enforcement undermine progress.

Media Should Reflect the Broader Ghana-China Relationship

While acknowledging the issue of illegal mining, the Ambassador urged the media to avoid generalizing the actions of a few individuals to tarnish the entire Chinese community in Ghana. He emphasized the importance of balanced reporting that highlights the positive aspects of bilateral cooperation.

China Promotes Responsible and Sustainable Mining

China supports green mining practices and highlights the role of Chinese companies engaged in large-scale, legal, and socially responsible mining operations that include environmental protection and community development.

Environmental and Economic Costs of Galamsey

The impact of galamsey includes severe water pollution from mercury and cyanide, destruction of farmland, and threats to food security and the cocoa industry—Ghana’s key export.

Background

Understanding Galamsey in Ghana

Galamsey refers to small-scale, often illegal gold mining practiced by individuals or groups using rudimentary tools and methods. While small-scale mining is legal under certain conditions in Ghana, the term galamsey has become synonymous with unregulated, environmentally destructive operations. The practice has expanded rapidly over the past two decades, driven by high global gold prices, youth unemployment, and weak enforcement of mining laws.

The Role of Foreign Nationals

In recent years, reports have highlighted the involvement of foreign nationals, including Chinese citizens, in galamsey operations. This has led to diplomatic discussions and public scrutiny of China’s role in Ghana’s mining sector. The Chinese government maintains a policy of non-interference in domestic affairs but requires its citizens abroad to respect local laws.

Ghana’s Anti-Galamsey Efforts

The Government of Ghana has launched several initiatives to combat illegal mining, including military-led operations, the creation of the Anti-Galamsey Task Force, and efforts to formalize small-scale mining. Despite these efforts, challenges remain due to corruption, lack of resources, and socio-economic factors that drive youth into the sector.

Analysis

Why Galamsey Persists Despite Government Action

The persistence of galamsey cannot be attributed to a single cause. It is the result of a complex interplay of economic, institutional, and social factors. High unemployment, especially among rural youth, makes galamsey an attractive short-term livelihood option. At the same time, weak enforcement, corruption, and inadequate monitoring systems allow illegal operations to continue with relative impunity.

The Importance of National Ownership

Ambassador Defa’s call for seriousness underscores a critical truth: external support, no matter how well-intentioned, cannot substitute for national resolve. For any anti-galamsey strategy to succeed, it must be owned and driven by Ghanaian institutions and citizens. This includes consistent enforcement of laws, transparency in the allocation of mining licenses, and accountability for public officials who enable illegal activities.

China’s Position and Its Implications

China’s stance reflects its broader foreign policy principle of respecting the sovereignty of host countries. By urging Ghana to take the lead, China avoids the appearance of interference while offering technical and diplomatic support. This approach allows for cooperation without compromising Ghana’s autonomy in managing its natural resources.

The Media’s Role in Shaping Public Perception

The Ambassador’s appeal for balanced media coverage is significant. While it is important to report on illegal mining and hold authorities accountable, it is equally important to avoid stereotyping entire communities. Responsible journalism should highlight both challenges and progress, including stories of legal mining operations that contribute to development and environmental protection.

Practical Advice

For Government and Policymakers

• Strengthen Enforcement: Increase funding and logistics for the Minerals Commission, Environmental Protection Agency, and security services to monitor and enforce mining laws.
• Formalize Small-Scale Mining: Create accessible pathways for artisanal miners to operate legally, including simplified licensing and access to designated mining zones.
• Promote Alternative Livelihoods: Invest in vocational training, agriculture, and green jobs to provide sustainable income sources for those currently engaged in galamsey.
• Enhance Transparency: Publish data on mining licenses, enforcement actions, and environmental monitoring to build public trust and deter corruption.

For Media Practitioners

• Aim for Balanced Reporting: Cover both the negative impacts of galamsey and positive developments in legal mining and environmental restoration.
• Use Accurate Language: Avoid broad generalizations; specify when incidents involve foreign or local actors to prevent misinformation.
• Promote Solutions Journalism: Highlight successful reclamation projects, community-led monitoring, and best practices in green mining.

For Local Communities

• Report Illegal Activities: Use official channels to report galamsey operations without fear of retaliation, supported by community watch groups.
• Support Legal Mining: Advocate for responsible mining companies that follow environmental standards and contribute to local development.
• Participate in Reclamation: Join tree-planting and river-cleaning initiatives to restore degraded lands.

For International Partners

• Support Capacity Building: Provide training, equipment, and technical assistance to strengthen regulatory institutions.
• Promote Responsible Investment: Encourage Chinese and other foreign companies to adhere to environmental and social standards in their operations.
• Share Best Practices: Facilitate knowledge exchange on sustainable mining technologies and environmental management.

FAQ

Conclusion

The message from Chinese Ambassador H.E. Tong Defa is clear: Ghana must treat the fight against galamsey with the seriousness it deserves. While international support is valuable, lasting solutions must come from within. This requires a united national effort involving strong governance, community participation, responsible media, and sustainable economic alternatives. By combining enforcement with empowerment, Ghana can protect its environment, secure its economy, and set an example for responsible mining in Africa. The time for half-measures has passed; what is needed now is a serious, sustained, and inclusive approach to end the galamsey crisis once and for all.