The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has announced an immediate ban on the fabrication, importation, sale, and use of “Changfan” machines, citing their destructive impact on Ghana’s water bodies and ecosystems.
In a directive issued on 29 October 2025, the EPA stated that many individuals and workshops were producing the machines without the required environmental permits, in breach of the Environmental Protection Act, 2025 (Act 1124) and the Environmental Assessment Regulations, L.I. 2504.
Although the fabrication of Chanfan machines—locally used for small-scale alluvial mining—has provided income for some artisans, the EPA warned that their use has caused severe environmental destruction, including the pollution of rivers, siltation of riverbeds, and the loss of aquatic biodiversity.
“Any workshops or shops found producing or selling these machines will be shut down, and all existing equipment will be seized and dismantled,” the Authority said in the statement.
The EPA further warned individuals and companies engaged in illegal mining within water bodies to halt such operations immediately, describing them as serious violations of national environmental and mining regulations.
Enforcement operations are expected to begin immediately in collaboration with security agencies. The agency said these joint operations will include monitoring, seizure, and prosecution where necessary to ensure compliance.
The directive marks one of the strongest nationwide environmental enforcement actions in recent years and forms part of government efforts to curb illegal mining activities—commonly known as galamsey—which continue to threaten Ghana’s major river systems, including the Pra, Offin, and Ankobra rivers.
For further information, the public has been urged to contact the EPA via its client relations unit or visit its website at www.epa.gov.gh.Source :Abigail Teye
Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, has announced that the government will embark on an ambitious programme to reclaim degraded mining lands and convert them into productive agricultural farmlands as part of efforts to promote sustainability and accountability in Ghana’s extractive sector.
Chief of Staff Julius Debrah
The announcement was contained in a keynote address delivered on his behalf by Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, Deputy Chief of Staff for Administration, at the launch of the Africa Extractives Media Fellowship at the Australian High Commission in Accra on Tuesday, October 28.
Mr. Debrah said the initiative forms a key component of the government’s Reset Agenda, which aims to ensure that Ghana’s natural resources benefit all citizens while protecting the environment and promoting long-term national development.
“As outlined in the 2024 Resetting Ghana Manifesto, the government will reclaim and convert mined lands into viable agricultural farmlands,” he stated.
He further indicated that government will enhancing the capacity of the Minerals Commission to effectively regulate the mining industry, facilitate gold trade, and ensure efficiency and sustainability in operations.
According to the Chief of Staff, government will also deploy advanced technology, including artificial intelligence (AI), to track excavators and geo-fence mining concessions as part of a broader strategy to improve transparency and curb illegal mining.
“The extractive sector cannot be left to chance,” Mr. Debrah stressed. “It must be regulated, monitored, and reported on with precision, and the media has a central role to play in that accountability chain.”
He added that the government remains committed to openness and welcomes constructive scrutiny from the media as a partner in promoting accountability and sustainable governance of the extractive sector.
“The Reset Agenda is built on transparency,” he said. “We see media oversight not as confrontation, but as collaboration — a partnership to protect our environment and ensure equitable use of our natural wealth.”
The Africa Extractives Media Fellowship, supported by the Australian High Commission and partner institutions, aims to build the capacity of journalists to report on natural resource governance and strengthen transparency across Africa’s extractive industries.By:Abigail Arthur
Illegal miners have encroached on land designated for a school park at Konkoma in the Bosomtwe District of the Ashanti Region, leaving the area severely degraded and posing a serious threat to the only public school and health centre in the community.Buy vitamins and supplements
The miners, in their search for gold, have dug dangerously close to the Konkoma D/A Basic School and the community health centre.
Illegal miners have taken over the land — once the only park and playground for pupils of the Konkoma D/A Basic School and the wider community.
The mining activities, taking place barely 100 meters from the school and health centre, have left deep pits and loose earth behind.
According to school authorities, the situation poses a major safety risk to pupils, while the abandoned pits have become mosquito breeding sites, worsening health conditions for patients at the nearby facility.
Assembly Member for the Konkoma Electoral Area, Stephen Abrokwah says the situation poses a serious risk to the community.
Citi News has gathered that officials from the National Security have effected some arrests in connection with the illegal mining activities.
District Chief Executive for Bosomtwe, Engineer Abdullah Hamidu, has since intervened and initiated a reclamation exercise to restore the degraded land.
He has also vowed to pursue those responsible for the destruction.
Meanwhile, the Assembly is urging residents to support efforts to clamp down on illegal mining in the area.
The Government and Hospital Pharmacists Association (GHOSPA) has expressed deep concern over the increasing cases of kidney and liver diseases in communities affected by illegal mining activities.
The association said the surge in renal and hepatic complications is directly linked to the high levels of mercury and other toxic metals contaminating water sources used by households in mining areas.
Dr Emmanuel Owiafe, National Chairman of GHOSPA, made these remarks on the sidelines of Pharmacy Technicians Association of Ghana’s (PTAC) 16th Annual General Conference, under the theme “Transforming Pharmacy Technicians Education and Practice in Ghana, 50 years of Innovation, Excellence and Impact” on October 17 in Kumasi.
He said the situation poses a major public health threat and requires urgent government intervention.“A number of patients are now being reported with increased issues related to their kidneys and livers, and it is becoming a menace to the entire population. That is why we, as the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana and the GHOSPA alike, are calling for swift and decisive action from the government,” he stated.
Dr. Owiafe added that the association has long discussed the health implications of galamsey and believes it is time for authorities to move beyond dialogue and take concrete steps to curb the practice. “We have examined several aspects of the health effects of galamsey. The decision now must be something decisive that the government can take,” he emphasised.By:S:ammi Wiafe
Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, has revealed that the government has saved about $300 million through renegotiations with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) — a move he says is critical to safeguarding Ghana’s energy sector.
Speaking during a working visit to the Volta River Authority (VRA) in Accra on Friday, October 17, Mr. Jinapor expressed confidence that the renegotiation efforts will yield significant long-term benefits for the country.
“The IPPs, based on the numbers I’m seeing, I’m confident that we can save a lot of money. And so far, what the IPPs renegotiated team has done tells me that we’re saving about $300 million from the IPPs,” he said.
John Abdulai Jinapor
The Minister noted that the Mahama administration is building on the progress made by the Akufo-Addo government in tackling challenges within the energy sector, stressing that the ongoing reforms are not driven by politics but by national interest.
“The previous administration did its bit, and we have also come to improve on it. It’s not always about politics, but Ghana first. I don’t care about your political affiliation as you sit here. Let’s work and turn around this sector,” he added.
Mr. Jinapor reiterated his commitment to ensuring stability and sustainability in the power sector, urging all stakeholders to collaborate in the national interest.By:Samuel Ackom
Ghana’s small-scale gold export sector has generated over US$8 billion in foreign exchange between January and 15th October 2025, according to new figures from the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) and the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC).
Data released by GoldBod shows that small-scale miners exported 81,719.23 kilograms of gold during the period, valued at US$8.06 billion. This marks a sharp increase from US$4.61 billion recorded in 2024 and nearly quadruple the US$2.19 billion achieved in 2023.
The data highlights a consistent upward trend in both gold volume and export value over the three-year period, reflecting improved regulation, transparency, and compliance within Ghana’s small-scale mining sector.
Sammy Gyamfi,CEO
Significant monthly gains were recorded in May (US$1.17 billion), June (US$957.9 million), and April (US$897.6 million), underscoring strong performance in the second quarter of the year.
GoldBod attributed the positive results to its continued partnership with PMMC and strengthened oversight of small-scale gold exports.
The collaboration has been instrumental in curbing illicit trade and ensuring that proceeds from gold sales are properly repatriated into the Ghanaian economy.
The surge in export earnings is expected to boost Ghana’s foreign reserves and support the country’s ongoing economic recovery efforts.By:Kobina Welsing
Asanko Gold Ghana has commissioned a multipurpose community centre for residents of Manso Nkran in the Amansie South District of the Ashanti Region.
Constructed at a cost of over 2.3 million cedis, the facily is fully furnished to serve as a central hub for knowledge sharing, cultural exchange, community gatherings, training and development programmes.
The beautiful edifice
The project was fully-funded by Asanko Gold Ghana, through its Social Responsibility Foundation (SRF) Development Fund as part of the mine’s broader multi-sectoral corporate social responsibility agenda.
Executive Vice President and Managing Director of Asanko Gold Ghana, Dr. Charles Amoah, said the facility is designed to address infrastructure gaps and promote social cohesion within its host communities.
Nana BI-Kusi Appiah speaking at the event
“From the Kwabenaso Primary School and the five-unit Asuadai Teachers’ Bungalows, to the 60-bed Esaase Hospital and the many community centers we have built, each stands as clear evidence of our multi-million-dollar investment in improving lives and strengthening community infrastructure across our host communities. Together, they reflect our conviction that responsible mining must advance side by side with social progress,” he noted.
Managing Director of Asanko Gold Ghana, Dr. Charles Amoah
Dr. Amoah said as part of the Asanko’s five-year development plan, the company has introduced and actively implementing several impactful initiatives designed to empower the host communities, enhance livelihoods and build resilience.
The inside view of the Community centre
“These include the Asanko Scholarship Scheme, which has awarded full educational support to 15 brilliant but needy students, and a soap-making initiative empowering women and youth with livelihood skills and income-generating opportunities,” he said. “The company has also launched an Agro Input Support Program to boost agricultural productivity and food security in host communities”.
A modern 10-seater toilet facility has been constructed for the Kwankyeabo community, improving sanitation and promoting better hygiene and public health standards.
Speaking at the project commissioning, the Paramount Chief of Manso Nkwanta, Nana BI-Kusi Appiah, expressed gratitude to Asanko Gold Ghana for the initiative, which he said would significantly benefit the community.
He urged residents in the manso enclave to cease attacks on Asanko Gold and resort to dialogue with the traditional council to settle tensions.
His appeal follows a recent violent clash between the youth of Mpatuam and soldiers guarding the mine, which resulted in the death of a local assembly member and extensive damage to properties belonging to the mine’s subcontractors.
Nana Bi-Kusi Appiah condemned the recurring hostilities and entreated residents to prioritize peace and cooperation to foster development.
He also pushed for more critical investments for communal development that would promote peace and stability in the area.
Accra, October 09, 2025 – MTN Ghana’s Chief Digital Officer, Ibrahim Misto, has reiterated the company’s commitment to expanding digital access and accelerating Ghana’s journey towards a fully connected future.
Speaking at the 30th Africa Internet Summit in Accra, Mr. Misto delivered a goodwill message on the theme “Internet in Ghana, Today and Tomorrow”, reflecting on Ghana’s 30-year Internet journey and MTN’s transformative role in shaping the nation’s digital landscape.
A picture of Ibrahim Misto, Edmund Fianko – NCA Director General, Hon Alfred Gaisie – MCE for Korley Klottey Municipal Assembly at the Summit.
Ibrahim Misto
In his address, Mr. Misto highlighted how MTN Ghana’s evolution mirrors the story of Africa’s Internet growth. He said “The story of MTN as a business is reflective of the evolution of the Internet within the African continent. Our services and infrastructure have advanced to support a plethora of services beyond basic voice and SMS, from data and IoT to digital, fintech and enterprise solutions. MTN has moved from a telco to a technology company”.
He reaffirmed MTN Ghana’s ongoing investment in infrastructure and digital inclusion, noting that the company has invested over US$1 billion since 2021 to modernize its network, expand 4G coverage, and extend fibre connectivity to homes.
Through its Mobile Money (MoMo) platform, MTN now serves over 17 million customers, driving financial inclusion and empowering millions with access to digital financial services.
Looking toward the future, Mr. Misto called for a collaborative approach to building Ghana’s digital ecosystem.“We envision an Internet ecosystem that is faster, smarter, and more inclusive. Through the government’s robust digital agenda, Ghana is poised to lead Africa’s digital future. But this future must be built together through, collaboration between government, industry, civil society and the youth who will shape it”, he noted.
MTN Ghana remains committed to investing in connectivity, digital literacy, platforms, and innovation hubs that empower the next generation, stressing that the company’s mission is to build a resilient Internet that reflects the values of access, equity, and opportunity.
Kenneth Ashigbey, Convener of the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining and CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, has strongly responded to accusations from Deputy Chief of Staff Stan Dogbe, who alleged that Ashigbey’s anti-galamsey advocacy is politically motivated.
Ken Ashigbey, a prominent voice in the fight against illegal mining, locally known as galamsey, has long pressured successive governments to take decisive action against environmental degradation. He was among civil society leaders who met with former President John Dramani Mahama last Friday to discuss the ongoing crisis.
Kenneth Ashigbey
In a Facebook post on Sunday, October 5, Ken Ashigbey highlighted active illegal mining operations near Simpa township on the Tarkwa-Takoradi road: “Around the Simpa township on the Tarkwa to Takoradi road, there is galamsey happening in clear sight. Is the MCE not aware? HE, John Dramani Mahama, please, this MCE cannot be representing your interests. I can see it from the road today, Sunday, the 5th of October 2025. They are working and polluting the waters.”
Stan Dogbe responded critically, suggesting Ashigbey’s advocacy lacked constructive engagement and was politically tinted: “If your government, in the 8 years of your ‘coloured’ fight, had demonstrated the political will and clear strategies deployed in the last 9 months, I guess we would not be here. Instead of gaining on negativity as a form of advocacy, you and your team, as advised by the president, should keep up the fight, but I add do it constructively and stop hiding behind political bias to gain a voice.”
Ken Ashigbey clapped back, expressing disappointment and rejecting claims of partisanship: “‘My government,’ really? Well, some in the NPP said the same. Thankfully, Ghanaians can judge my actions for themselves. My focus has NEVER been on those who, like you, see every national issue through partisan lenses. My commitment is to Ghana and to those who genuinely care about our nation’s future. They recognise the consistency of our message and the sincerity of our advocacy. When we began this fight in 2017, where were you? What was your contribution to the struggle against galamsey under the NPP? Was that when you also thought our advocacy was ‘negative’? History will judge us all.”
He further emphasized his commitment to solutions over rhetoric:
“Some of us are focused on solutions, not noise. You may ask the Minister of Lands, the Hon Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah — whenever we engage, we present concrete proposals. We’ve even shared a comprehensive paper with H.E. John Dramani Mahama at the event on Friday, the 3rd of October 2025, detailing actionable solutions. This is a matter of public record.”
Ashigbey also addressed the broader implications of illegal mining and the environmental toll it’s taking:
“Ghanaians can see that our work is not driven by money or politics. They know that our fight is against the imminent environmental crisis threatening all of us, not an exercise in negativity. Perhaps you are not as concerned about the poisoning of our water bodies or the destruction of our environment. Yes, you can now afford imported brands like Voss. I cannot. My children and family depend on the resources here in Ghana, the same ones being destroyed daily.”
He concluded with a firm rejection of political bias and a call to uphold civic responsibility:
“I hold NO POLITICAL BIAS — and you know that. Yet, for reasons best known to you, you now seek to misrepresent me. I pray that God forgives you for the falsehoods you spread about me. The truth, and the internet, will not forget. Why should I stay silent when I see wrongdoing? Even HE, the President himself, has called on all of us to support the fight against galamsey. The Minister of Lands urged citizens to speak up when they see something wrong. Would you rather we disobey that call?”
BY: Kyei Kwadwo Yamoah, Executive Director of HELP Foundation Africa
In Ghana, illegal small-scale mining (“galamsey”) has become a major national security, environmental, and public health crisis. It has polluted major rivers (Pra, Ankobra, Offin, Birim), destroyed forests, undermined food security, and contributed to social conflicts.
Despite multiple interventions, galamsey persists, driven by powerful financiers and facilitated by weak enforcement also traditional regulatory measures have not yielded the desired impact
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A State of Emergency is an extraordinary constitutional tool that could be invoked to address galamsey, but it comes with both opportunities and risks.
Here is how State of Emergency (SoE) could be used:
Legal Basis
Under Ghana’s 1992 Constitution (Article 31), the President can declare a State of Emergency when:
Ghana is at war or under threat of invasion,
There is a breakdown of public order and safety,
Natural disasters or other emergencies threaten the life of the nation.
If galamsey is recognized as an existential environmental and security threat; polluting rivers, destroying forests, undermining food security, and fueling armed conflicts. it could justify the declaration of State of Emergency (SoE) Against Galamsey.
Potential Uses of a State of Emergency Against Galamsey
a) Enhanced Security Deployment
o Military and police forces could be legally empowered to establish restricted zones in heavily affected galamsey areas.
o Security could dismantle illegal mining operations, confiscate equipment, and secure rivers/forests without the usual bureaucratic/legal delays.
b) Fast-Tracking Environmental Protection Measures
o Emergency powers could allow the state to suspend or override licenses, leases, or permits being abused.
o Rapid reclamation programs could be implemented with less red tape.
c) Strict Control of Mining Equipment and Chemicals
o Ban or tightly regulate the importation of excavators, dredges, and mercury.
o Emergency powers could allow for immediate seizure and destruction of illegal machinery used for galamsey.
d) Protection of Water and Food Security
o Rivers like Pra, Ankobra, and Offin are national lifelines. By framing galamsey as a public health emergency, emergency orders could criminalize river pollution at the highest level.
e) Coordinated National Response
o A State of Emergency would allow the government to mobilize extraordinary budget allocations, direct coordination between agencies (Forestry, Minerals Commission, EPA, security services), and establish special task forces with sweeping powers.
o Deploy a real-time monitoring system (drones, satellite data, citizen hotlines).
Advantages of State of Emergency Against Galamsey
Decisive Action: SoE provides extraordinary powers to override bureaucratic delays, mobilize resources, and coordinate agencies.
Sends a strong political signal that the government prioritizes the environment and national survival.
Cuts through the bureaucratic bottlenecks that galamsey actors exploit.
Mobilizes national and international support (donors, UN, ECOWAS) for anti-galamsey efforts.
Can deter powerful actors (including politicians and business elites) who profit from galamsey.
Risks and Concerns of State of Emergency Against Galamsey
Human rights abuses: Security crackdowns could lead to violence, loss of livelihoods, or victimization of poor miners instead of targeting the “big men” behind galamsey.
Political misuse: Could be abused for political gain, silencing dissent, or targeting opponents.
Economic backlash: Tens of thousands depend on small-scale mining; without alternatives, unrest may grow.
Sustainability: Emergency powers are temporary without structural reforms, galamsey could resurge.
Complementary Measures Needed
Declaring a State of Emergency alone is not enough. To be effective, it should be combined with:
Alternative livelihoods (agriculture, youth employment programs, eco-tourism, community skills programs, etc). Emergency funds for smallholder farmers affected by water pollution.
Legal reforms to tighten mining regulations and close loopholes.
Community-based monitoring with chiefs and local assemblies.
Public education to shift cultural acceptance of galamsey.
Accountability at the top: target financiers and political patrons, not just miners on the field.
Safeguards Against Abuse
· Time-bound and targeted : Limit SoE to a defined period (e.g., 6 months, renewable only with Parliamentary approval). Restrict scope to affected mining districts, not the entire country.
· Human Rights Protections : Establish independent oversight committees with civil society and traditional leaders. Provide grievance mechanisms for communities and small-scale miners.
· Accountability for Financiers: Focus enforcement on financiers, political patrons, and equipment suppliers, not only poor miners in the pits.
· Transparency: Monthly public reporting by the Task Force on actions taken, arrests, reclamation progress, and funds spent.
In summary: A State of Emergency in Ghana could be legally justified if galamsey is framed as a national survival crisis affecting water, food, and security. It could allow decisive security, environmental, and legal action. However, without safeguards, it risks abuse, human rights violations, and temporary fixes. The best path is to use it as a catalyst for deep reforms, not as a standalone solution.
