The National Association of Concerned Clergy (NACOC) has called on President John Mahama to demonstrate a stronger commitment to combating illegal mining (galamsey).
They have therefore called upon him to show this commitment by putting forth a number of policies. These are repealing any and all laws or regulations that allow mining in sensitive zones such as forest reserves, water bodies without full environmental impact assessments and stakeholder consent, declare a state of emergency in identified red‐zone areas severely affected by illegal mining, and implementing strong accountability mechanisms, including independent oversight bodies, transparent prosecutions (without fear or favour), and public reporting on progress.
They have also called on the President to provide alternative livelihood programs for those dependent on illegal mining, particularly in rural and youth sectors, reduce the economic pressure driving the menace, demonstrate commitment to environmental restoration by reclaiming destroyed forests, rehabilitate polluted rivers, restore farmlands, and ensure that restored lands are protected, and engaging religious, traditional, and community leaders in monitoring and advocacy, including empowering them to report illegal activities and participate in decision‐making.
This was contained in a press release to all media houses dated 11th September, 2025. It was signed by Rev. Kwame Sefa Frimpong, Secretary General, Prophet Richard Copeland, National President, Apostle Martin Success , National Treasurer and Rev. Kofi Boachie, National Organizer/Media Relations Officer
NACOC expressed deep concern and disagreement with the recent statement made by the President of the Republic of Ghana regarding the fight against illegal mining (“galamsey”). They stated that while they appreciate the government’s stated commitment to address environmental degradation and protect communities, they believe that the President’s remarks fall short of the urgency and concrete action required to halt the escalating damage.
They decried the lack of Specific Measures contained in the President’s address, saying that the statement did not present new or actionable measures beyond what has already been proposed or promised.
“The environment, rivers, forest reserves, and livelihoods of thousands of Ghanaians continue to suffer. Words alone are no longer sufficient,” they stated.
They also criticized the President for demonstrating inadequate commitment to accountability by failing to indicate how perpetrators—whether individuals, traditional authorities, or politically‐connected persons—will be held accountable in a transparent, fair, and timely manner, without impartial enforcement, trust in the process erodes.
They stated that there was also ambiguity on legal instruments.
“Several existing regulations (including LI 246 — Environmental Protection Regulations relative to mining in forest reserves) remain controversial. The clergy believes that until problematic laws that effectively enable or overlook illegal mining are repealed, statements will ring hollow,” they stated.
The group added that there was insufficient support for communities, with many involved in galamsey out of economic desperation.
“The statement lacks detail on how affected communities will be supported via sustainable livelihood programs, land restoration or educational initiatives,” they stated.
They warned that there was Neglect to Environmental Restoration.
“The ongoing destruction of water bodies, forests, and farmland demands not only cessation of illegal mining, but active restoration efforts. The President’s statement did not allocate clear resources or timelines for reclamation and recovery efforts,” they said.
“We acknowledge the President’s recognition of galamsey as a crisis, but as servant‐leaders, we cannot remain silent when communities are losing water, food, and hope. The fight requires more than speeches—it requires courage, consistency, and justice,” they said.
The National Association of Concerned Clergy reaffirmed its readiness to work with government, civil society, traditional authorities, and local communities.
“We believe that collective, morally grounded action is essential to safeguard both our heritage and our future,” they said.
