Ken Ashigbey Lambasts DCEs for Failing in Galamsey Battle

Introduction

Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, convenor of the Media Coalition Against Galamsey, has delivered a scathing critique of Ghana’s District Chief Executives (DCEs) for their failure to curb the surge of illegal mining—a practice locally termed “galamsey.” In a fiery address, he accused regional leaders of negligence, asserting that the persistence of galamsey in key areas constitutes a systemic failure. His remarks, delivered on Ghana-broadcasting network Luv FM, highlight mounting frustration over the environmental and social costs of unchecked mining operations, urging urgent accountability for local authorities.

Analysis: Why Galamsey Persists

The Accountability Gap

Dr. Ashigbey’s primary grievance centers on the lack of accountability among DCEs and Metropolitan Chief Executives (MCEs). He argues that despite explicit presidential directives to eliminate illegal mining, enforcement remains inconsistent. “The President has provided the tools and metrics for success, but local leaders lack the political will to act,” he stated. This disconnect between policy and implementation has allowed galamsey networks to thrive, disproportionately affecting rural communities and ecosystems.

Galamsey as Organized Crime

Contrary to public perception, Dr. Ashigbey frames galamsey as an organized crime enterprise. The visible miners in extraction pits, he argues, are often low-level participants coerced or economically compelled into the trade. The real drivers, he asserts, are transnational financiers, smugglers, and corrupt officials who manage supply chains and money laundering. “The real perpetrators are those funding the operation—individuals who profit from smuggling gold across borders,” he emphasized.

Media as a Strategic Tool

Ashigbey underscores the role of investigative journalism in dismantling galamsey syndicates. He advocates for documentaries and media campaigns to expose financial networks, noting the Gold Board of Ghana’s Minerals Commission as a key partner in tracing illicit funds. This approach aligns with global best practices for combating resource-based conflicts, where transparency and data-driven reporting are pivotal.

Summary: The Core Issues

The article underscores three critical themes:
1. **Leadership Failure**: DCEs and MCEs are criticized for inadequate enforcement despite having the authority to act.
2. **Organized Crime Dynamics**: Galamsey is portrayed as a sophisticated operation extending beyond local miners.
3. **Community Success Stories**: Contrasting examples of Mampong (galamsey-free) and Kwabeng (struggling) illustrate the impact of unified leadership.

Key Points Analysis

1. DCEs’ Mandate and Metrics

The President’s anti-galamsey directives, including clear performance indicators, remain unimplemented. Ashigbey insists that DCEs possess the legal powers to allocate resources and mobilize law enforcement, yet compliance is lacking.

2. Financial Networks Behind Galamsey

The Gold Board’s role in tracking smuggled gold is highlighted as a model for disrupting funding. Ashigbey calls for enhanced collaboration between media, law enforcement, and regulatory bodies to expose profit chains.

3. Community-Driven Solutions

Success cases like Mampong demonstrate that community mobilization—coupled with political commitment—can eradicate galamsey. Ashigbey urges replication of such models nationwide.

Practical Advice for Stakeholders

For Local Authorities

• Enforce Penalties Rigorously: Implement strict sanctions against illegal mining operations.
• Collaborate with Media: Partner with coalitions like the Media Coalition Against Galamsey for public awareness campaigns.

For Communities

• Form Vigilance Committees: Leverage local leaders to monitor and report illegal activities.
• Promote Alternative Livelihoods: Invest in agriculture or eco-tourism to reduce dependency on mining.

For Policymakers

• Strengthen the Gold Board: Expand its mandate to include real-time financial tracking.
• Reform Supply Chains: Regulate gold purchasing networks to curb smuggling.

Points of Caution

While Ashigbey’s critique is compelling, challenges remain. Addressing galamsey requires balancing environmental protection with economic realities. Small-scale miners, though part of the problem, are often victims of exploitation. A nuanced approach combining punitive measures with social support programs is essential to avoid alienating vulnerable populations.

Comparison: Mampong vs. Kwabeng

• Mampong: Local chiefs and community leaders successfully banned galamsey through collective action and political backing.
• Kwabeng: Despite proximity, conflicting priorities between district leaders and traditional authorities led to ongoing struggles. This contrast underscores the importance of unified governance.

Legal Implications

Ghana’s 2006 Minerals and Mining Act categorizes illegal mining as a criminal offense, with penalties including imprisonment. However, enforcement gaps persist. Ashigbey’s push for accountability suggests potential legal action against negligent DCEs, though no prosecutions have been publicly reported. Legal experts argue that clarifying commanders’ responsibilities in regional mining plans could close loopholes.

Conclusion

Dr. Ken Ashigbey’s critique serves as a wake-up call for Ghana’s fight against galamsey. By prioritizing accountability, leveraging media, and learning from community successes like Mampong, stakeholders can transform the current crisis into an opportunity for sustainable development. The path forward demands collaboration across all levels of government, law enforcement, and civil society.

FAQ

Sources

• Life Pulse Daily, “Ken Ashigbey Lambasts DCEs for Failing in Galamsey Battle,” October 6, 2025.
• Gold Board of Ghana’s Minerals Commission, official reports on mineral traceability.
• Interviews with Dr. Ken Ashigbey on Luv FM (2025).

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