Galamsey Emergency Needs Action, Not Words – Schandorf
Accra, Ghana – July 2, 2025
Paa Kwesi Schandorf, the Media Relations Officer at the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, has stressed that declaring a state of emergency to combat illegal mining (galamsey), while important, is not sufficient on its own. According to him, such declarations must be backed by practical, strategic policies to ensure they yield meaningful results.
Speaking on the AM Show on JoyNews on July 1, Schandorf acknowledged the legitimacy of calls for a state of emergency but emphasized that without concrete implementation measures, the gesture could become “a lot of noise with no real impact.”
“The calls for a state of emergency were justified then, and they remain relevant today,” he said. “However, if you decide to declare a state of emergency without the necessary measures in place to implement it, then the declaration could be meaningless.”
Symbolic Wins vs. Real Solutions
Schandorf admitted that declaring a state of emergency would be a symbolic win and would likely attract public praise and media accolades. However, he warned that unless the deeper, more complex issues—such as the involvement of traditional authorities—are addressed, no real change will occur.
“If the state of emergency is declared today, I can guarantee that we would receive applause from the entire population… but no action will take place unless the core issues are addressed,” he added.
He emphasized that the government is not dodging the issue but rather working behind the scenes to build a solid foundation for any such declaration to be successful.
Responding to Political Pressure
These remarks come amid renewed public pressure, especially from the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), who had earlier pledged to declare a state of emergency on galamsey when in opposition. Some critics now claim the party is backtracking on its earlier promise.
Schandorf responded firmly, defending the government’s approach. He compared the idea of declaring a state of emergency without policy backup to an armed robber claiming to stop stealing without giving up his weapons—implying that intentions without action are futile.
Current Government Measures
While a state of emergency has not yet been declared, Schandorf pointed to several government initiatives currently in place, aimed at tackling illegal mining and restoring Ghana’s environment. These include:
- The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS)
- The Blue Waterguard initiative
- Ongoing community and enforcement engagements
Despite criticisms, the government insists that these measures will go a long way to reclaim destroyed lands, protect water bodies, and ensure sustainable mining practices.
“We are committed to implementing the necessary measures that will eventually eliminate galamsey,” Schandorf concluded.
Do you support the idea of declaring a state of emergency on galamsey, or do you think practical policy implementation is more effective? Share your thoughts in the comments.
