President John Dramani Mahama has described the fight against illegal mining, or galamsey, as a “national survival mission” that requires collective responsibility and firm government action. The President emphasized that protecting Ghana’s future demands a united stand against the environmental destruction caused by illegal mining. President John Mahama said this when addressing journalists and dignitories at the 29th Ghana Journalist Association Awards at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi on Friday, November 8, 2025. The awards that rewards journalists who have excelled in the space was held under the theme “Safeguarding Ghana’s Future” The Role of The Media In Promoting Peace, Security And The Fight Against Galamsey”.
President Mahama with Otumfuo
“This is not a matter of convenience; it is essential for our very survival as a nation,” he declared. “Communities that attack public officials or security personnel performing their lawful duties must know that firm action will be taken against them.” President Mahama also expressed empathy toward journalists injured in recent field operations, revealing that he had instructed the Chief of Staff to contact them and ensure their hospital bills and medical care are covered. In a major policy announcement, the President introduced a Journalist Support Fund to strengthen capacity, welfare, and safety across the media landscape. The fund, he said, will support capacity building, investigative journalism, digital literacy, and safety training, enabling journalists to work “confidently, competently, and securely.”
Touching on economic reforms, President Mahama outlined his administration’s flagship initiatives, including the 24-hour Economy Initiative, Feed Ghana Program, Poultry Revitalization Program, National Apprenticeship Program, and Million Coders Program, which he said are designed to create sustainable employment and growth opportunities for the youth. “I can understand that our young people have been deprived of opportunity over the years,” Mahama said. “But destroying the environment is like cutting off your nose to spite your face. The government is working hard to stabilize and grow the economy to create jobs.”