Campaign lead for the Trans African Tourism and Unity Campaign and former Member of Parliament, Ras Mubarak, has called for renewed national commitment to ending illegal mining in the wake of the August 6, 2025 helicopter crash that claimed eight lives, including prominent anti-galamsey campaigners.
In a post titled “From Ashes to Action”, Mubarak paid tribute to the victims, including Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Dr. Murtala Ibrahim, and Alhaji Limuna Muniru, describing their deaths as “the ultimate sacrifice” in the fight against a practice that has polluted 60% of Ghana’s water bodies, destroyed forests, and endangered lives.
He praised Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene for his “beacon of strength” in leading the region’s crisis response under immense pressure, noting that “no training prepares one for such a tragedy, yet his resolve steadied a grieving nation.”
Mubarak also urged psychological support for the Minister, community members, and emergency responders who witnessed the crash’s devastating aftermath.
Commending the military, emergency services, and residents of Sikaman for their swift rescue and recovery efforts, Mubarak said their unity reflected the resilience of Ghanaian communities in times of crisis.
Turning to the fight against galamsey, he highlighted existing government initiatives such as Operation Halt, the Multilateral Mining Integrated Project, and mercury-free mining under the Minamata Convention, but stressed that enforcement gaps and economic dependence on illegal mining persist.
“The loss of these eight lives must not be in vain,” Mubarak stated, urging the government to reinforce Operation Halt with drone surveillance, expand alternative livelihood programmes, and involve local communities in environmental restoration. He called on citizens to advocate for clean rivers and forests as part of the victims’ legacy.
“We mourn the loss of our compatriots who gave their lives in the fight against galamsey. May their deaths inspire a renewed commitment to protect Ghana’s environment,” he concluded.
