Traditional authorities can end galamsey if the law is amended- Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II

The President of the National House of Chiefs, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, has declared that illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, could be eliminated within a year if the Chieftaincy Act is amended to restore full authority to traditional rulers.

Speaking at the 2025 Eluo Festival Durbar in Bibiani, the Paramount Chief of the Sefwi Anhwiaso Traditional Area noted that chiefs are often blamed for the destruction caused by galamsey, yet the very powers required to address the menace have been taken away from them.

He explained that under Section 63(d) of the Chieftaincy Act, chiefs are barred from directly involving themselves in matters relating to land and natural resources, a restriction that makes it difficult for them to intervene in illegal mining activities.

As reported by 3News, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II also cautioned chiefs and traditional leaders in the Anhwiaso Traditional Area to desist from any form of involvement in galamsey, warning that those who engage in such practices risk facing disciplinary action. He emphasized that amending the Act would provide traditional authorities with the legal backing needed to confront and ultimately eradicate illegal mining.

Meanwhile, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, has assured of government’s commitment to review the Chieftaincy Act and strengthen collaboration with chiefs to promote sustainable development.