Renowned Ghanaian businessman and mining executive Sir Sam Jonah has warned that illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, is destroying Ghana’s rivers, forests and farmlands, describing the condition of some water bodies as a troubling sign of environmental decline.
Speaking at the Methodist University Ghana International Conference on Thursday, October 15, 2026, Sir Sam said rivers that once sustained communities had become heavily polluted. “Rivers that fed our grandparents now run the colour of chocolate milk,” he said, highlighting the consequences of irresponsible mining practices.
Stay Updated With Ghana Media
Get breaking Ghana news, exclusive stories and important updates directly on WhatsApp.JOIN OUR WHATSAPP CHANNEL
Sir Sam made the remarks during a conference marking the university’s 25th anniversary. He described galamsey not only as an environmental problem but also as an economic, public-health and moral concern, warning that its effects extend far beyond mining communities.
Follow Ghana Media on X for breaking updates and developing stories.FOLLOW GHANA MEDIA ON X
The pollution of rivers threatens communities that depend on them for drinking water, farming, fishing and other livelihoods. Contaminated water can also place additional pressure on treatment facilities and raise the cost of supplying safe drinking water.
Sir Sam argued that the destruction of natural resources reflects a failure of stewardship, stressing that present generations have a responsibility to protect the environment for those who come after them. His remarks also raised broader questions about whether the benefits of extracting natural resources outweigh the long-term damage left behind.
Although the comments have drawn attention amid national concerns about galamsey, the reported remarks focused on the environmental, economic and moral consequences of illegal mining. They should not be interpreted as a direct accusation against President John Mahama unless further evidence establishes that interpretation.
Read more on GhanaMedia.net. Follow our Ghana News, Ghana News Live, Top Stories and Policy & Law Hub sections for more updates.
