Lands and Natural Resources Minister, Emmanuel Armah Kofi-Buah, is concerned about the alarming rate at which illegal small-scale mining, commonly known as ‘galamsey,’ is devastating Ghana’s forests and water bodies.
Addressing Parliament on Tuesday (19 February), the Minister revealed that the situation has escalated into a full-blown crisis, with illegal miners operating with impunity.
“Ghana is currently faced with an unprecedented threat to our forest resources and water bodies due largely to illegal, small-scale mining activities. This situation has assumed crisis proportions,” Kofi-Buah stated.
According to the Minister, out of Ghana’s 44 forest reserves, more than nine have been completely taken over by illegal miners, making it impossible for state agencies to enforce environmental protections. He disclosed that the Forestry Commission has lost access to these reserves, raising concerns about long-term environmental consequences.
“Over nine out of the 44 forest reserves have been completely taken over by these illegal mining thugs with impunity. The Forestry Commission no longer has access to these forest reserves,” he lamented.
The Minister further warned that if urgent measures are not taken, Ghana risks losing vast stretches of its forests, while water bodies will continue to suffer heavy pollution from mining activities.
He assured Parliament that the government is intensifying efforts to clamp down on illegal mining operations and restore degraded lands.
Environmentalists and civil society groups have repeatedly called for stronger enforcement measures and community involvement in the fight against illegal mining.
With the Minister’s latest revelations, there is mounting pressure on the government to take decisive action to reclaim Ghana’s natural resources.
Content by : Jonathan Ofori
