The Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) has organised a Western Regional validation and dialogue workshop in Takoradi to support the development of a unified national policy on illegal mining, widely known as galamsey.

The workshop brought together policymakers, security agencies, development partners and civil society groups to strengthen collaboration and shape a coordinated response to the growing threat of illegal mining in Ghana.

Growing security and economic threat

Commandant of KAIPTC, David Anetey Akrong, warned that illegal mining has evolved into a complex political and economic system, making it increasingly difficult to address.

He explained that galamsey is no longer just an environmental concern but one that affects land access, labour dynamics and community safety.

The workshop, held in partnership with the Embassy of Spain in Ghana, focused on the safety and security implications of illegal mining and aimed to promote informed dialogue and stronger policy action.

Western Region identified as hotspot

According to Air Vice Marshal Akrong, the Western Region plays a critical role in Ghana’s mining landscape, with several communities emerging as hotspots for illegal mining activities.

He noted a worrying link between galamsey operations and the circulation of illicit and improvised weapons, particularly in remote mining areas and along key transport routes.

He cautioned that this trend poses serious risks to both communities and security personnel, while also connecting local challenges to organised crime, illicit financial flows and cross-border criminal networks.

Community pressures and weak coordination

Akrong highlighted the difficult choices faced by communities involved in illegal mining, where economic survival often outweighs concerns about environmental damage and social disruption.

He said this situation contributes to weak institutional coordination, unclear accountability and declining public trust in enforcement systems.

Call for stronger collaboration

The Spanish Ambassador to Ghana, Angel Lossada Torres-Quevedo, stressed the need for sustained cooperation among stakeholders.

He noted that Spain’s partnership with KAIPTC continues to support efforts to address the issue through dialogue and policy development.

Government response and proposed measures

Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson attributed the persistence of galamsey largely to economic hardship, explaining that many communities support illegal mining due to limited livelihood options.

He revealed that 11 out of 14 Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies in the region are affected.

Mr Nelson proposed new legislation that would allow government to seize lands leased to illegal miners by traditional authorities, describing galamsey as a major national challenge requiring decisive action.