NADMO Records About 30 Mining-Related Deaths in Eastern Region in 2026

The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has recorded approximately 30 mining-related deaths in various mining communities across Ghana’s Eastern Region since January 2026.

Deputy Regional NADMO Director in charge of Technical and Disaster Risk Reduction, Emmanuel Konja Tullah, disclosed the figure following the latest galamsey-related tragedy at Asaman Tiamfoe in the Atewa East District.

The incident occurred on the night of Saturday, August 29, 2026, when a mining pit reportedly collapsed, trapping 11 illegal miners underground.

Rescue teams subsequently recovered the bodies of seven of the victims, while four others remained missing as search and recovery operations continued in the following days.

Personnel from the Anyinam District Police Command, Ghana National Ambulance Service, NADMO and local volunteers took part in the rescue and recovery exercise.

Speaking about the recurring incidents, Tullah called for the strict enforcement of regulations requiring mining pits to be properly covered after use.

In a video shared on X on August 31, 2026, by Citi FM, he stressed that stronger enforcement and oversight were necessary to prevent further loss of life associated with abandoned or unregulated mining pits.

“They should strengthen their oversight activities, ensuring that the necessary coordination and security measures are put in place so that these incidents are not recorded,” he said.

The latest tragedy at Asaman Tiamfoe has renewed concerns over the dangers posed by abandoned and improperly secured mining pits, particularly in communities where illegal mining activities remain prevalent.