The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has expressed grave worries about the continuous devastation of Ghana’s land and water resources brought on by the menace of illegal mining, or galamsey as it is known locally.
In a news release on July 20, 2025, UTAG voiced its dissatisfaction with John Dramani Mahama’s actions thus far in the fight against the menace, albeit acknowledging some little progress.
The release was issued after UTAG’s National Executive Council (NEC) convened an emergency meeting on Thursday, July 17, 2025, to evaluate the government’s efforts to eradicate galamsey.
UTAG’s NEC praised the efforts of the security services, especially the Ghana Police Service led by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), and the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, but said that “much is left to be desired as the wanton destruction of the environment continues unabated.”
UTAG further admitted that the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) had been instructed by the Attorney General and the Minister of Justice to investigate political figures suspected of being involved in galamsey.
According to the Association, this is a “commendable” move, but “more significant and coordinated action… to eradicate the galamsey menace in the country permanently.”
The core of UTAG’s plea is the voluntary commitment made by President Mahama prior to the 2024 general elections.
Both UTAG and the Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey (GCAG) signed the “National Pledge by Presidential Candidate Taken Against Illegal and Irresponsible Mining (Galamsey) in Ghana,” which summarized this commitment.
This commitment is seen by the Association as a “solemn social contract with the Ghanaian people to combat illegal mining and restore environmental integrity.” UTAG emphasized that the “concrete actions required to match the gravity of his pledge” have not yet been implemented since President Mahama took office.
As “a community of scholars, researchers, and defenders of sustainable development,” UTAG feels it is imperative to remind the President of his specific commitments and the urgent need for their fulfilment.
The Association’s message to President Mahama is clear; “President Mahama must now walk the talk.”
