President John Dramani Mahama has announced a stringent policy to ban the issuance of leases for mining in all forest reserves.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of the third batch of ministers, President Mahama emphasized the government’s commitment to safeguarding the environment from illegal mining activities.
“We must also move promptly to revoke all leases issued for the same purpose under the previous government”.
Addressing Emmanuel Armah Kofi-Buah, the newly appointed Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, President Mahama outlined the critical responsibilities ahead.
“As Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, you will be charged with the duty of safeguarding the environment from illegal mining and managing our natural resources effectively”.
President Mahama clarified that the current administration has not authorized any mining activities in forest reserves, dismissing recent reports to the contrary.
“No member of this government is permitted to engage in any form of small-scale mining or galamsey. Any such persons will face swift and severe sanctions,” he warned.
He urged the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, the Minister for the Interior, the Attorney General, and the Minister for Justice to take immediate steps to ensure the arrest and prosecution of any individuals or groups involved in illegal mining activities.
