Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, has announced that the government is undertaking a comprehensive review of Ghana’s mining licensing regime as part of efforts to curb destructive mining practices. He emphasized that under the new framework, only individuals and entities that meet strict legal and environmental standards will be granted permits to engage in mining activities.
Speaking at a high-level parliamentary conference on illegal mining, themed “Restoring a Culture of Proper Small Scale Mining in Ghana,” Mr. Armah Kofi Buah highlighted the critical role of Members of Parliament (MPs) in addressing illegal mining.
He noted that MPs, as direct representatives of the people, are often the first point of contact in their constituencies and must therefore be equipped with the necessary data, skills, and information to effectively contribute to the fight against illegal mining.
The conference, attended by lawmakers and key stakeholders, served as both a call to action and a reminder of the collective responsibility to safeguard Ghana’s natural resources.
The Minister stressed that while small-scale mining remains an essential sector that provides employment for millions and significantly contributes to the economy, illegal mining, driven by greed and disregard for environmental laws continues to devastate the country’s ecosystems.
“Our forests are being decimated, our farmlands are being degraded, and our rivers are polluted with toxic chemicals. This is not just an environmental crisis; it is a social and economic crisis that threatens the very fabric of our communities,” Mr. Armah Kofi Buah stated.
He recounted a recent visit to the Offin Shelterbelt Forest Reserve, where approximately 30 hectares of land had been destroyed due to illegal mining activities.
The Minister described the extent of the devastation as alarming, reaffirming the government’s commitment to tackling the menace through a multi-faceted and collaborative approach.
The Minister assured the nation that the government, under the leadership of President John Mahama, is fully committed to eliminating illegal mining and restoring Ghana’s natural resources. He outlined key interventions, including:
Reviewing the Mining Licensing Regime: The new process will ensure a transparent, efficient, and environmentally responsible licensing system that prioritizes community interests.
Strengthening Law Enforcement: Security agencies have intensified operations, leading to the arrest and prosecution of both foreign and Ghanaian illegal miners in recent weeks.
Engaging Key Stakeholders: The Ministry is actively consulting traditional leaders, the media, youth groups, and other key players to build a national consensus on responsible mining.
The Minister reiterated that restoring a culture of responsible small-scale mining requires a united front. He urged MPs to take the lead in their constituencies and act as champions of sustainable mining practices.
“As we deliberate, let us remember that the choices we make today will determine the kind of Ghana we leave for future generations. We have a responsibility to ensure that our natural resources are managed in a way that promotes sustainable development,” he concluded.
The Members of Parliament (MPs) through majority leader, Mahama Ayariga reaffirmed their commitment to tackling the crisis.
Story: Nancy A. Obimpeh
