Accra: The Minority in Parliament has issued a cautionary statement regarding the rebranding of the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC) into GoldBod, asserting that this change is exacerbating the illegal mining problem, commonly referred to as galamsey, and accelerating environmental harm across the nation.
According to Ghana Web, during his contribution to the discussion on the 2026 State of the Nation Address on March 10, 2026, Deputy Minority Chief Whip Jerry Ahmed argued that the government's decision to transition from PMMC to GoldBod has led to confusion, weakened oversight, and inadvertently encouraged illegal mining activities. Ahmed criticized the government's focus on renaming and restructuring institutions instead of addressing the underlying issues within the gold sector.
Jerry Ahmed highlighted the widespread nature of illegal mining, pointing out the severe consequences it has on forests, water bodies, and communities. He emphasized that places like Bole, the hometown of President John Dramani Mahama, are experiencing environmental destruction, with abandoned mining pits becoming hazards for residents. Ahmed warned that the escalating levels of galamsey pose a long-term threat to the nation's survival.
Ahmed also expressed concerns about the impact of illegal mining on national infrastructure, particularly hydroelectric power generation. He cited media reports indicating that silt from illegal mining activities is obstructing the turbines at the Bui Dam, jeopardizing electricity supply. He described the situation as a national security emergency and accused local authorities in mining areas of ignoring illegal operations.
The Deputy Minority Chief Whip further questioned the financial management of GoldBod, criticizing what he viewed as misplaced priorities. He alleged that while the state suffers significant financial losses, public officials indulge in extravagant foreign trips. Ahmed also raised concerns about the Bank of Ghana's decision to sell 18 tonnes of gold reserves, arguing that it was economically reckless. The gold was reportedly sold for US$2.22 billion, only for the state to later announce plans to repurchase the same quantity at a higher cost of US$3.4 billion, leading Ahmed to question the whereabouts of the US$1.2 billion profit.
The Minority urged the government to move beyond institutional rebranding and take concrete action against illegal mining by enforcing existing laws, strengthening regulatory bodies, and holding officials accountable. Ahmed stressed that without urgent measures, galamsey would continue to devastate the environment, undermine the economy, and endanger lives.