By #KHOBBYSLEVELS

In a shocking twist to Ghana’s fight against illegal mining, the Ghana Armed Forces and the Forestry Commission have uncovered a massive hidden settlement inside the Subri River Forest Reserve in the Western Region. The illegal community, locally called “Abrewa Ne Nkran,” had more than 10,000 people living deep within the forest.

The joint task force moved in swiftly to dismantle the entire settlement, which was a hotspot for illegal mining, known locally as galamsey. The area’s remote location made it hard to detect, but the environmental damage it caused was massive.

According to recent data, over 3,000 hectares of land in the Takoradi area alone have been damaged by illegal mining. While government efforts like the creation of the Ghana Gold Board aim to regulate small-scale mining, this discovery proves illegal operators are still finding ways to thrive. Authorities have promised more action to save Ghana’s lands and water bodies.​

The environmental destruction caused by galamsey (illegal mining) in Ghana is nothing short of catastrophic. Vast stretches of forest are being obliterated, rivers and streams are left polluted, and once-fertile lands are now barren. The use of toxic chemicals like mercury and cyanide in these unlawful mining operations not only devastates ecosystems but also poses deadly health risks to miners and nearby communities.

In response, the Ghanaian government is taking significant steps to curb the damage. Starting May 1, 2025, foreign nationals will be prohibited from buying or trading gold extracted through illegal mining. This move is part of a broader strategy to regulate Ghana's gold supply chain and reduce the devastating impact of galamsey activities. Authorities hope that by controlling illegal gold trading, they can protect the country’s environment, public health, and future.

While the demolition of the Abrewa Ne Nkran settlement marks a significant step in the fight against illegal mining, experts emphasize the need for sustained efforts, community engagement, and the provision of alternative livelihoods to ensure long-term success in eradicating galamsey activities