The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has declared a firm commitment to using all legal means to eliminate illegal mining (galamsey) in Ghana. At a recent press briefing in Accra, Buah outlined a comprehensive five-pillar strategy aimed at addressing the crisis. These measures include reforming the licensing process to ensure transparency, stepping up law enforcement efforts, collaborating with local communities, reclaiming degraded lands, and promoting alternative livelihoods for affected communities.
Buah highlighted the government’s success in reclaiming seven out of nine forest reserves previously controlled by illegal miners, with ongoing efforts to recover the remaining reserves. Recent joint military-forestry operations have led to the seizure of numerous illegal mining equipment, including excavators and bulldozers.
Looking ahead, the government plans to implement additional measures such as geotagging and monitoring of excavators, conducting geological surveys of mineral-rich areas, and launching public education campaigns on environmental protection. Buah urged the support of traditional leaders, local authorities, and civil society in this crucial fight to safeguard Ghana’s natural resources for future generations.
