President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo's final State of the Nation Address, given on Friday, January 3, 2024, reaffirmed his unflinching commitment to the fight against illegal mining, also known as galamsey.

In his reflections on his presidency, he acknowledged the high political price of this conflict but insisted that it was a sacrifice that was required to protect Ghana's natural resources.



"On January 7, 2017, I took the oath of office and vowed to safeguard our lands and water bodies from the damage that galamsey causes."

When it came to protecting our environment, I was willing to risk my presidency.

I don't regret this struggle, but it directly caused the NPP to lose a lot of parliamentary seats in the 2020 elections.

Emphasizing the detrimental effects of illicit mining on Ghana's ecology, he emphasized that his administration's opposition to galamsey was motivated by the desire to protect the country's future.

Protecting Ghana's farms, rivers, and forests must come before political expediency, he said, acknowledging the difficulties of dealing with strong vested interests.

The notable advancements in the mining industry under his direction were also discussed by President Akufo-Addo.

After producing a record 4 million ounces of gold last year, Ghana has emerged as Africa's top producer of the metal.


Local populations have benefited economically from the building of new mining projects as well as the reopening of abandoned mines like Obuasi and Bibiani.

Due to the government's emphasis on value addition, a 400-kilogram gold refinery in Ghana and a $450 million manganese refinery have been established.

Through these efforts, Ghana hopes to increase the value of its mineral resources and promote sustainable industry practices.

The President underlined that the campaign against galamsey is a call for ethical mining methods rather than an assault on mining per se.

"Minering must be done in a way that respects our future, our people, and our environment," he said.

"Today's decisions will determine tomorrow's Ghana. For future generations, let us protect our environment and ensure a sustainable future.