Ken Ashigbey, Convener of the Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey (GCAG)
The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey (GCAG) has issued a public correction to a statement it released on 28 March 2026 concerning the state of Ghana’s forest reserves affected by illegal mining.
In the earlier statement, the Coalition had cited figures suggesting that the number of forest reserves impacted by illegal mining had increased to at least 50, with over 9,000 hectares affected following the assumption of office by President John Dramani Mahama.
However, in its correction dated 1 April 2026, GCAG clarified that as of 31 December 2024, the total area of forest reserve land impacted by illegal mining stood at approximately 9,000 hectares.
The Coalition further explained that while the number of affected forest reserves rose to 50 in 2025, the precise extent of land impacted within that period is still under assessment. It added that a comprehensive report analysing updated figures will be published by June 2026.
GCAG expressed regret for any confusion caused by the earlier statement and reaffirmed its commitment to accurate reporting and continued engagement on efforts to address illegal and irresponsible mining in Ghana’s forests.
