Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced stricter visa requirements for Chinese nationals as part of renewed efforts to curb illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
Speaking at the Government Accountability Series on Monday, September 15, 2025, Mr. Ablakwa reaffirmed Ghana’s strong relations with China but stressed that illegal activities by some individuals cannot be condoned.
“We have very great relations with China and, to be fair, many Chinese nationals are engaged in legitimate businesses and transformative projects. There is no official Chinese government policy to come and destroy our environment. But a small, persistent number have been involved in galamsey, and this cannot continue,” he said.
The Minister disclosed that during his recent visit to China, he travelled to Guangxi province—described as a hotspot for nationals migrating to Ghana for illegal mining—where he delivered a firm message on behalf of President John Mahama.
“I did not mince words at all. I clearly stated President Mahama’s position that this cannot continue,” Mr. Ablakwa said.
Following high-level talks in Guangxi, Ghana’s embassy in Beijing and consulate in Guangzhou have rolled out new visa protocols. Effective immediately, group visa applications from Chinese nationals will no longer be accepted.
“That’s the new policy. Everybody must now show up for an interview. Whether you are coming for a conference, an excursion, or business, each person must apply individually,” the Minister announced. “There is a strict directive: no more group processing of visas.”
Mr. Ablakwa emphasized that the new measures form part of a broader government clampdown on illegal mining.
“I can assure you that we are dealing with this matter very fairly, in our national interest. The galamsey menace is one we must all confront,” he said.
