Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) are allegedly collecting fees from illegal miners, effectively facilitating 'galamsey' operations. Ken Ashigbey, Convener of the Media Coalition Against Galamsey, stated that this practice undermines efforts to combat illegal mining. This alleged conduct raises serious concerns about local authorities' adherence to Ghana's mining laws.
The accusation stems from a JoyNews investigative documentary titled 'A Tax for Galamsey: The Extortion Racket Fuelling Illegal Mining'. This exposé revealed that a district assembly in the Amansie Central District of the Ashanti Region allegedly collected payments from illegal mining operators. The investigation found that illegal miners paid fees, sometimes formalised with stickers and receipts, to continue their operations. Operators of 'changfan' machines were reportedly charged about GHS 6,000 annually, while excavator operators also faced similar payments.
This situation fits into Ghana's broader struggle against illegal mining, known locally as 'galamsey', which devastates the environment and contaminates water bodies. The government has invested significant resources into combating this menace, including deploying military personnel and enacting stricter laws. However, allegations of local authorities profiting from these illegal activities suggest a deep-seated challenge to enforcement and governance. President John Dramani Mahama, in March 2026, acknowledged that this practice was widespread across several gold-mining districts.
Ing. Ken Ashigbey, speaking on TV3, questioned why decisive action had not been taken against municipal and district authorities involved. He highlighted that officials who knowingly facilitate illegal mining could face liability under Ghana's Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act, 2019 (Act 995). This law criminalises not only unauthorised mining but also acts that aid, facilitate, or promote activities contravening the law. The Lands Ministry has acknowledged the documentary and pledged to investigate the implicated officials.
The implications are significant for Ghana's fight against illegal mining and for public trust in local governance. The government has directed assemblies to cease taxing 'changfan' machines and other illegal mining equipment. It warned that officials failing to comply could face sanctions. This directive aims to ensure that internally generated revenue does not come from unlawful activities. Future actions by the Lands Ministry and the government's resolve to sanction non-compliant MMDCEs will be closely watched by environmental groups and the public.
The Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act, 2019 (Act 995), specifically strengthens penalties for illegal mining. Section 99 of the amended Act criminalises aiding or facilitating illegal mining. It also prohibits the use of floating platforms and other equipment for mining in or along natural water bodies. This legal framework underscores the seriousness with which Ghana's government views illegal mining. The alleged actions of MMDAs directly undermine these legislative efforts, creating a perception that payments can bypass legal requirements. This situation could further embolden illegal miners, making the fight against 'galamsey' even more challenging. The President's directive and the ongoing investigations are crucial steps towards restoring integrity to local governance and protecting Ghana's natural resources.