Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George Links Illegal Mining to Quarter of Ghana's Fibre-Optic Disruptions

Ghana's telecommunications infrastructure is facing a growing threat from illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, which is now responsible for approximately 25% of all fibre-optic cable cuts across the country. Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George revealed these statistics during a Government Accountability Series event, highlighting a significant and often overlooked consequence of the galamsey crisis. The Minister noted that while legitimate entities like road construction contractors typically report accidental damage to underground cables, illegal miners operate in secrecy and fail to notify telecommunications companies when infrastructure is breached. This lack of reporting complicates repair efforts and jeopardizes the reliability of voice and data services nationwide.

Beyond the digital impact, the environmental and legal crackdown on illegal mining continues to intensify. On September 4, 2026, the Forestry Commission's Rapid Response Unit conducted a dawn operation in the Atewa Range Forest Reserve, a critical biodiversity area and water source for millions. The operation led to the arrest of 12 individuals in the Sagyimase community and the seizure of five motorbikes and various mining equipment. The suspects have been handed over to the Kyebi District Police as part of the government's commitment to deterring illegal activities within protected forest reserves and preserving the nation's natural resources.

In tandem with enforcement, state institutions are seeking to institutionalize more sustainable mining practices. The Christian Council of Ghana recently commended the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) for its focus on transparency and environmental stewardship. During a consultative meeting, GoldBod CEO Sammy Gyamfi outlined new initiatives aimed at enhancing local gold refining and establishing international-standard laboratories to better manage the country's mineral wealth. Dr. Joyce Laco Steiner of the Christian Council emphasized that responsible resource management is essential for the welfare of future generations, signaling a unified front between religious leaders and state agencies.

The convergence of infrastructure damage, environmental degradation, and the push for reform underscores the complex challenge facing President John Mahama's administration in its fight against illegal mining. While the Forestry Commission and GoldBod are making strides in enforcement and policy shifts, the high frequency of fibre-optic disruptions highlights the pervasive nature of galamsey’s impact on modern Ghanaian life. As the government continues its multi-sectoral approach, the focus remains on protecting both the country's digital future and its ecological heritage from the far-reaching effects of illicit extraction.