Galamsey Threatens National Survival: Annoh-Dompreh Sounds Alarm

By Culture Gossip! • August 15, 2026 • 3 min read

In a stark warning, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, the Minority Chief Whip and Nsawam-Adoagyiri MP, has highlighted the devastating impact of illegal mining, also known as galamsey, on Ghana's water bodies, vegetation, and livelihoods. Speaking to journalists after voting in the NPP Eastern Regional Executives Elections at Asamankese, Mr. Annoh-Dompreh emphasized that the crisis had moved beyond partisan politics.

Environmental Consequences of Galamsey

The Minority Chief Whip expressed particular concern about the condition of the Birim River, describing it as a major water body in the Eastern Region. Rising turbidity levels in the river and the destruction of flora and fauna point to the worsening environmental impact of illegal mining. Mr. Annoh-Dompreh linked the destruction to wider concerns about climate change, changing rainfall patterns, and the sustainability of Ghana's natural resources.

The Rise of Galamsey Along Accra-Kumasi Highway

Mr. Annoh-Dompreh also raised concern about illegal mining activities allegedly taking place along sections of the Accra-Kumasi highway. He described the situation as unprecedented and questioned why illegal miners appeared to be operating with what he termed "impunity." This comes amid renewed national concerns over the impact of illegal mining on rivers, forest reserves, farmlands, and communities.

A Source of Disappointment for Some Ghanaians

Mr. Annoh-Dompreh said the NPP had expected the government of President John Dramani Mahama to approach the environmental crisis differently, given the President's previous experience in public service. He said the situation had therefore become a source of disappointment for some Ghanaians who voted for a change in government. The MP stressed that the party would not manufacture issues for political campaigns, but instead, its agenda would be shaped by concerns raised by ordinary Ghanaians.

Galamsey to Feature Prominently in NPP's Future Messaging

Mr. Annoh-Dompreh said galamsey would feature prominently in the NPP's future political messaging. He identified environmental degradation, the cost of living, governance, and corruption as some of the issues likely to dominate the political conversation ahead of the next elections. The MP questioned the government's handling of corruption cases, particularly the use of nolle prosequi in cases involving persons accused of wrongdoing against the state.

A Major Issue in the Political Debate

For Mr. Annoh-Dompreh, however, the galamsey crisis could remain one of the biggest issues in the political debate. He maintained that the matter must not be reduced to an election slogan because of its direct implications for water security, agriculture, livelihoods, biodiversity, and the environment. The Minority Chief Whip acknowledged the party's challenges in several constituencies, including some of its traditional strongholds, but emphasized the need for a united front to tackle the galamsey menace.

The Road Ahead

As the NPP works to rebuild its structures following its defeat in the 2024 general elections, the party's parliamentary group and grassroots supporters have begun discussions on how to strengthen the party ahead of the next electoral cycle. Mr. Annoh-Dompreh's comments serve as a reminder of the urgent need for a comprehensive solution to the galamsey crisis. The Minority Chief Whip's warning will undoubtedly resonate with many Ghanaians, who are eager to see decisive action taken to protect the country's natural resources and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.

Source: Joy Online