# Illegal mining issues in Ghana

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/illegal-mining-issues-in-ghana
> Updated: 2026-08-17T16:57:00.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

Calls for accountability and action regarding illegal mining, known as ‘galamsey’, have intensified in Ghana. Duncan Amoah, Executive Secretary of the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC), urged political leaders to stop protecting those involved in the practice following the 20-year sentence of NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako for illegal mining activities.

In response to the ongoing issue, Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams has called for prayers to combat the illicit gold trade. He suggested the movement involves a spiritual dimension, alleging that influential individuals are resisting sector regulation through ‘powers from the other side’. While emphasizing spiritual intervention, the Archbishop noted that state institutions, including the police and military, must continue to enforce laws against illegal mining and gold smuggling.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-17: Archbishop Duncan-Williams calls for prayers against illegal mining in Ghana

Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams has called for prayers to support Ghana’s fight against illegal mining, citing spiritual influences and resistance from influential figures against gold trade reforms.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/archbishop-duncan-williams-calls-for-prayers-against-illegal-mining-in-ghana

### 2026-07-26: Duncan Amoah demands accountability on illegal mining and ex‑finance minister in Ghana

Duncan Amoah, Ghana’s COPEC chief, urged leaders to hold illegal miners and ex‑finance minister Ken Ofori‑Atta accountable, linking environmental harm and corruption concerns.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/duncan-amoah-demands-accountability-on-illegal-mining-and-exfinance-minister-in-ghana

---
Cite as: Illegal mining issues in Ghana. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/illegal-mining-issues-in-ghana