The Chairman of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), Bernard Owusu, has called for urgent and sustained national action to end illegal mining popularly known as galamsey, warning that Ghana risks losing critical environmental and economic gains if the practice continues unchecked.
He made the remarks at the 2026 May Day celebrations held at Jackson’s Park in Koforidua on Friday, May 1, 2026, which brought together workers, labour leaders, government officials and state representatives. President John Dramani Mahama also graced the occasion.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Owusu said illegal mining remains a major national threat despite years of interventions.
He warned that continued environmental degradation would worsen unemployment and economic hardship, urging authorities to intensify enforcement and protect natural resources.
The TUC reaffirmed its long-standing position calling for stricter measures against illegal mining, describing it as essential to safeguarding Ghana’s future development and the welfare of workers.
“The issue of galamsey still remains a menace and must stop now. Despite ongoing reforms, we are losing this fight and we cannot and we cannot afford to lose our future. When rivers die, industries, agriculture, investment and jobs all decline leaving the Ghanaian worker to bear the cost. This is why our stance on galamsey remains uncompromised,” he said.
[PHOTOS] Thousands gather for Citi FM/Channel One TV’s Family Consecration
