Ghana’s president launched a special task force on Tuesday to combat rampant illegal gold mining and smuggling that has long plagued the West African nation. The chronic challenge of illegal gold mining — known locally as “galamsey” — was a major issue during Ghana’s presidential election campaign last year and a source of concern for voters, triggering protests and criticism against the outgoing government. Ghana’s President John Mahama inaugurated the GOLDBOD Task Force, saying its creation “signals our readiness to act decisively.” The task force — comprised of officers from various security agencies and the ... (full story)