President John Dramani Mahama has announced a new government policy banning the issuance of mining leases in all forest reserves.
Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony for the third batch of ministers on Thursday, January 30, the President also revealed plans to revoke all mining licenses previously granted for operations in forest reserves under the previous administration.
“It shall be the policy of this government to ban the issuance of leases for mining in all forest reserves. We must also move promptly to revoke all leases issued for the same purpose under the previous government,” he stated.
President Mahama underscored the urgency of addressing illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, and the unsustainable exploitation of forest resources. He reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to environmental protection and dismissed reports claiming his government had authorized mining in forest reserves, emphasizing that no such approvals had been granted.
He further directed the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, the Minister for the Interior, and the Attorney General to take decisive action against individuals and entities involved in illegal mining activities.
The President’s announcement signals a firm stance on preserving Ghana’s natural resources and combating environmental degradation.