The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, has disclosed that 44 forest reserves across the country have come under threat from illegal mining activities, leading to the degradation of over 5,000 hectares of forest land.
Speaking in Parliament, the Minister stated that although some progress has been made through joint operations by the military and police, illegal miners continue to wreak havoc in several protected areas.
He revealed that seven forest reserves have so far been secured from encroachment, and assured the House that efforts are underway to reclaim and restore the damaged lands.
Mr. Buah appealed to Members of Parliament and local communities to support the government’s fight against illegal mining by helping to identify and expose those engaging in such destructive activities.
