Ghanaian lawyer and prominent political communicator Kwasi Kwarteng who serves as the official spokesperson for veteran politician and New Patriotic Party (NPP) stalwart Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, has argued that the persistent problem of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, cannot be blamed solely on unemployment, insisting that the financial rewards associated with the activity remain its greatest attraction.
In a Facebook post, Kwarteng challenged the widely held belief that the lack of jobs is the primary reason many Ghanaians engage in illegal mining.
“The notion that unemployment fuels galamsey is only part of the story. Its profitability remains the biggest driver of the trade!” he wrote.
His remarks come at a time when Ghana continues to intensify efforts to combat illegal mining, which has been linked to the destruction of forests, pollution of rivers, and the degradation of farmlands across the country.
Over the years, unemployment—particularly among young people—has frequently been cited as a major factor pushing many into the illegal mining sector. However, Kwarteng believes the significant profits generated from galamsey are what continue to attract both unemployed individuals and those who already have other sources of income.
Ghana Seems To Have Lost The Fight Against Galamsey
His comments have reignited discussions on the measures needed to effectively address illegal mining. Analysts have argued that while creating sustainable employment opportunities is essential, tackling the lucrative nature of the trade will require stricter law enforcement, tougher penalties for financiers and operators, and stronger regulation of the mining sector.
The government’s anti-galamsey campaign has included security operations, the seizure and destruction of illegal mining equipment, and renewed efforts to reclaim degraded lands. Despite these interventions, illegal mining remains a major environmental and economic challenge.
Kwarteng’s comments add another perspective to the ongoing national conversation, suggesting that any long-term solution to galamsey must address not only unemployment but also the strong financial incentives that continue to fuel the illicit trade.