The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Mr. Sulemana Yusif, has called for increased international collaboration to combat illegal mining in Ghana. Speaking at a tree-planting ceremony under the Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative, Mr. Yusif emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing the issue. However, he noted that the transboundary nature of illegal mining requires stronger global partnerships.
Delivering the Minister’s remarks, Mr. Yusif outlined a five-pillar strategy to tackle illegal mining: reforming the mining licensing regime, strengthening enforcement, reclaiming degraded lands, providing alternative livelihoods, and engaging stakeholders. He warned that illegal mining poses a significant threat to Ghana’s environment, water bodies, and sustainable development.
The Deputy Minister highlighted Ghana’s environmental agenda, including the Tree for Life initiative, which aims to plant 30 million tree seedlings in 2025. The project promotes urban greening, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable land management.
The Chairman of the Forestry Commission Board, Prof. Martin Oteng-Ababio, echoed the need for global cooperation, praising diplomatic support. The Lebanese Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Maher Kheir, reaffirmed the diplomatic community’s alignment with Ghana’s green development agenda.
Launched in March 2025, the Tree for Life Initiative designates June as Green Month, focusing on reforestation, ecosystem preservation, and green job creation. Ghana hopes for long-term investments and technical collaboration from global partners to support its environmental protection and sustainable land use efforts.
