President John Dramani Mahama says he harboured no illusions about the complexity of the illegal mining crisis while campaigning for office, but remains firmly committed to sustaining the fight against the destructive activity.

Addressing workers at the 2025 May Day celebration at the Black Star Square in Accra, President Mahama stated that the battle against galamsey cannot be won overnight—but insisted his government will not relent.

“The fight against galamsey is a complex one, and when I was vying for the presidency, I did not kid myself that when I come into office, I will win that fight in four months, yet we will not give up,” he said.

He assured Ghanaians that the state’s security apparatus is equipped and determined to root out illegal mining operations threatening the country’s forests and water bodies.

“Our gallant men of the Armed Forces and security services are up to the fight, and we will continue to score successes against the selfish companies and individuals who are destroying our forests and polluting our water bodies,” the President stated.