The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has called for a comprehensive reform of Ghana’s mining licensing system to tackle the environmental crisis caused by illegal and unregulated mining activities.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, March 22, Mr. Buah stressed that the licensing process must begin at the local level. He announced plans to establish District Community Licensing Committees, which will include the District Security Council (DISEC) to enhance oversight and regulation.
Addressing the impact of mining on the country’s forests and water bodies, the minister cited alarming reports from the Water Resources Commission and the Forestry Commission.
He revealed that water treatment levels, which should ideally be at 500, have risen to between 5,000 and 12,000, making it difficult for treatment plants to function effectively. Additionally, out of Ghana’s 288 forest reserves, 44 have been completely destroyed, while nine are classified as critically endangered.
“We must completely reform the licensing regime and strengthen law enforcement. This requires political will and leadership, and I am very clear in my mind about the support and commitment of President John Mahama. He has given me clear instructions—this fight must be won for the people of Ghana, for our forests, our water bodies, and our future,” the minister stated.
Mr. Buah underscored the need for national engagement and education, emphasizing that protecting Ghana’s natural resources is a collective responsibility.
“This fight is not just for the Ministry of Lands or the government alone; it is for the people of Ghana. There must be areas we collectively agree are no-go zones—not our water bodies, not our forests, because these are the sources of life,” he added.
The minister further outlined key initiatives to support alternative livelihoods, including the Tree for Life initiative and other programs aimed at sustainable land use and youth empowerment. He also emphasized the need for aggressive reclamation and re-vegetation of degraded lands to restore areas affected by mining activities.