President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to revoke all mining leases issued for activities in forest reserves under the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration.
The move, according to the government, is part of a broader effort to protect Ghana’s natural resources and curb environmental degradation caused by illegal and unsustainable mining practices.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of 14 Ministers of State on Thursday, January 30, President Mahama reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding the country’s environment and ensuring that Ghana’s forests are preserved for future generations. He emphasized that immediate steps would be taken to halt all mining operations in these sensitive areas and legal actions would be pursued against those found culpable.
“Honourable Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, as Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, you will be charged with the duty of safeguarding the environment from marauding galamsey and managing our natural resources effectively. Let me take this opportunity to state that it shall be the policy of this government to ban the issuance of leases for mining in all forest reserves. We shall also move promptly to revoke all leases issued for the same purpose under the previous government,” President Mahama declared.
The decision comes at a time when Ghana is grappling with the devastating effects of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, which has led to widespread destruction of water bodies, forest reserves, and farmlands. Environmentalists, civil society organizations, and traditional leaders have continuously raised concerns over the unchecked expansion of mining activities in ecologically sensitive areas, calling for stricter enforcement of environmental laws.
President Mahama’s firm stance signals a departure from past policies that allowed mining concessions in forest reserves, often resulting in the loss of biodiversity and irreversible damage to Ghana’s ecosystems. The revocation of mining leases is expected to send a strong message that the government will no longer tolerate mining operations that pose a threat to the environment.
Under the new policy, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources will be tasked with conducting a comprehensive audit of all mining leases granted in forest reserves during the previous administration. This review will determine the extent of environmental violations and ensure that companies operating illegally are held accountable. The government has also indicated its intention to collaborate with environmental protection agencies, local communities, and security forces to enforce the new directives effectively.
The impact of illegal mining on Ghana’s environment has been profound. Rivers and water bodies, including the Pra, Ankobra, and Offin, have been severely polluted due to the use of harmful chemicals such as mercury and cyanide. These pollutants not only destroy aquatic life but also pose significant health risks to communities that rely on these water sources for drinking and irrigation.
Deforestation caused by mining activities has also contributed to climate change and soil degradation, making it difficult for farmers to sustain their livelihoods. The destruction of forest reserves has led to habitat loss for many wildlife species, further endangering Ghana’s rich biodiversity.
The revocation of mining leases is expected to be met with mixed reactions. While environmental activists and conservationists have praised the move as a necessary step to restore Ghana’s natural heritage, some mining companies and industry stakeholders may challenge the decision, citing contractual agreements and potential job losses.
However, the government has assured that the transition will be managed carefully to minimize disruptions in the mining sector. President Mahama has reiterated that the focus is not to stifle economic activities but rather to ensure that mining is conducted responsibly and within the confines of the law. He emphasized that his administration will promote sustainable mining practices that prioritize environmental conservation while supporting economic growth.
To further strengthen environmental protection efforts, the government plans to introduce stricter regulatory measures, including the establishment of a task force to monitor and enforce compliance with mining laws. This task force will work closely with local communities to identify illegal mining operations and take swift action to shut them down.
The involvement of local chiefs and community leaders is seen as a crucial aspect of the government’s strategy. Many traditional rulers have long expressed frustration over the destruction of their lands and water sources due to illegal mining. By engaging them in the enforcement process, the government hopes to build a strong coalition against galamsey and illegal mining operations.
The mining sector remains a vital part of Ghana’s economy, contributing significantly to employment and revenue generation. However, the challenge has always been balancing economic benefits with environmental sustainability. The government’s new policy aims to strike this balance by encouraging responsible mining practices while eliminating activities that harm the environment.
As Ghana moves forward with this initiative, international partners and environmental organizations are expected to play a role in supporting efforts to restore degraded lands and promote reforestation. The government has hinted at potential collaborations with global environmental agencies to access funding and technical assistance for land reclamation projects.
In the coming months, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources is expected to roll out a roadmap for implementing the new policy. This will include a timeline for revoking mining leases, measures for rehabilitating affected areas, and guidelines for companies seeking to operate within the new framework.
President Mahama’s firm decision to revoke mining leases in forest reserves marks a significant shift in Ghana’s approach to environmental protection. It reinforces the government’s commitment to preserving the country’s natural resources and ensuring that future generations inherit a sustainable and healthy environment. While challenges remain, the move is a bold step toward addressing the long-standing issue of illegal mining and its devastating impact on Ghana’s ecosystem.
The success of this policy will depend on effective enforcement, collaboration with key stakeholders, and the government’s ability to implement long-term strategies for sustainable resource management. If properly executed, it has the potential to set a new standard for responsible mining practices and environmental conservation in Ghana.
