The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Mr. Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, has issued a stern warning to individuals and groups involved in illegal mining in water bodies and forest reserves, emphasizing that anyone caught will face severe consequences.
In a renewed effort to combat illegal mining, commonly known as “Galamsey,” particularly in and around water bodies and forest reserves, the Minister has declared a firm stance, stating that no one—regardless of their political affiliation—will be spared if they engage in mining within these protected areas.
While touring the Offin-Shelter Belt Forest Reserve in the Nkawie district of the Ashanti Region, Mr. Armah Kofi Buah, accompanied by a joint military-police task force, oversaw the successful removal of all miners from the reserve.
Speaking to the media, the Minister emphasized the critical importance of water bodies and forest reserves to the country’s economic stability and the well-being of its citizens.
“The only reason we are alive today is because of our environment—it is what sustains us. This is where we get everything necessary to keep us alive. So when we see the destruction of the Offin River, which originates from here, what some of our people are doing is essentially harming us at the very core of our survival,” he explained.
He also addressed the youth, urging those interested in mining to follow proper, legal channels. “There is a legitimate way to engage in mining, but we will not tolerate illegal mining in our reserves, and we’ve made that very clear,” he stated firmly.
Mr. Armah Kofi Buah expressed confidence that the government’s move to repeal L.I. 2463, which permits mining in forest reserves, would further protect these vital areas. He emphasized that even the President would not have the authority to grant permission for mining in such restricted zones.
