The government is set to review the licensing system and processes within the mining sector to ensure better compliance and regulation.
Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, stated that this move aims to curb illegal mining, commonly known as Galamsey, which has escalated into a national crisis.
During the inauguration of an 18-member working committee tasked with implementing radical reforms to address issues such as land degradation, pollution, and illegal mining activities in forest reserves and water bodies, Mr. Armah Kofi Buah highlighted that 44 out of the country’s 288 forest reserves have been completely destroyed by illegal mining.
He emphasized that the situation has reached a crisis level, posing a significant national security threat that requires urgent action.
The 18-member committee, chaired by Professor Oteng Ababio from the University of Ghana, has been given a two-week deadline to develop a comprehensive strategy for reforming the mining sector in Ghana.
The minister stated that his ministry, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, the Ministry of Defence, the Attorney General, and the Ministry of Local Government, is working together to address the issue.
He explained that the committee’s mandate includes reviewing mining operations in forest reserves, identifying best practices for mining, proposing solutions to stop mining in water bodies, and recommending strategies for tackling mining-related challenges.
Expressing concern over the extensive destruction of Ghana’s river and forest resources, the minister revealed that 15%—a staggering 44 out of 288 forest reserves—have been severely impacted by illegal mining activities.
Citing a presentation from institutions in the Water and Resources sector, the minister emphasized the alarming fact that the water consumed by Ghanaians is nearly poisonous, and stressed the need for urgent and radical actions to address the situation.
Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Murtala Mohammed, stated that forest reserves are vital for human survival and it is incomprehensible how a few individuals with selfish interests are endangering the well-being of over 35 million Ghanaians. He urged that the fight against illegal mining cannot fail and called on all Ghanaians, especially traditional authorities, to unite with the government in this battle.
The Dormaahene, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyeman Badu, acknowledged the efforts of traditional authorities in combating illegal mining in their areas, but noted the challenges they face. He assured the ministers and the working committee that with the establishment of the new government committee, they will not fail in their mission.
