The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combating illegal mining during a high-level meeting with the Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey (GCAG).
The meeting was convened at the directive of President John Dramani Mahama, following a petition submitted by the Coalition urging more decisive action against the menace.
“We are deeply committed to protecting Ghana’s natural resources and ensuring sustainable mining practices,” Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah stated. He cited notable achievements, including the recovery of eight out of nine forest reserves that were previously under threat from illegal mining.
The Minister highlighted new government initiatives, such as the Blue Water Guards task force protecting water bodies, the Tree for Life Restoration Initiative aimed at land reclamation and reforestation, and the decentralization of the license regime. The Coalition commended the Minister for his efforts and dedication to sustainable mining in Ghana and pledged their support.
A key focus of the discussion was the newly established National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), designed to coordinate enforcement among security agencies. Dr. Ken Ashigbey, Convener of the Coalition, applauded the initiative and pledged collaboration.
The Coalition submitted demands, including revocation of Legislative Instrument (L.I. 2162), publication of names of owners of seized excavators, declaration of a state of emergency in critical areas, and prosecution of foreign nationals involved in illegal mining. Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah commended the Coalition’s advocacy and assured them that their concerns would be presented to President Mahama for further action.
