President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to revoke all mining leases granted for operations within forest reserves under the previous administration of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
This decision is part of the government’s broader initiative to safeguard Ghana’s natural resources and curb the environmental damage caused by illegal and unsustainable mining activities.
During the swearing-in ceremony of 14 Ministers of State on Thursday, January 30, President Mahama emphasized the urgency of addressing these issues. He assured that steps would be taken immediately to halt mining operations in forest reserves, with legal action pursued against those involved.
He tasked the newly appointed Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, with the responsibility of protecting the environment and managing the country’s natural resources effectively.
“Honourable Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, as Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, your duty will be to safeguard the environment from the destructive activities of illegal mining and ensure sustainable management of our resources,” the President stated.
He further declared, “It shall be the policy of this government to ban the issuance of leases for mining in all forest reserves. Additionally, we will act swiftly to revoke all leases previously granted for such activities.”