President John Dramani Mahama has taken a bold step to combat illegal mining in Ghana by issuing a directive that prohibits government officials from engaging in any form of mining, whether legal or illegal.
This move is part of his comprehensive environmental agenda, which aims to preserve Ghana’s natural resources.
Mahama emphasized that any government official wishing to venture into mining must first relinquish their government position.
He warned that violating this directive would result in severe repercussions, including immediate dismissal from office.
The President also instructed security and regulatory agencies to intensify their efforts in combating illegal mining.
The directive is a crucial component of Mahama’s environmental agenda, which includes:
Revoking mining leases
Cancelling existing mining leases in forest reserves to protect these areas from environmental degradation.
Imposing a moratorium
Placing a temporary ban on issuing new mining permits in forest reserves to prevent further environmental damage.
Combating illegal mining
Intensifying efforts to combat illegal mining, which has devastating consequences on the economy, public health, and livelihoods.
Mahama described illegal mining as a national crisis, highlighting its far-reaching consequences.
He emphasized the urgent need for collective action to address this issue.
The Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative, launched by Mahama, aims to restore degraded lands, particularly those affected by illegal mining and deforestation. This initiative is a key component of his 120-day social contract with Ghanaians.
