The Lands and Natural Resources Minister-designate, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has attributed the degradation of Ghana’s forest reserves to political operatives rather than reputable mining companies.
Speaking during his vetting on Monday, January 27, 2025, he underscored the role of political favoritism in enabling illegal mining activities within protected areas.
“Let me say that these very reputable companies who have been mining in our forest reserves are not the reason why our forest is bleeding today. The reason why our forest is being degraded and destroyed is because we have allowed political apparatchiks to take over our forest and destroy it,” Mr. Buah asserted.
He emphasized that licensed mining companies adhere to regulations, but the problem lies with illegal miners emboldened by political connections. According to him, such miners operate with impunity, exploiting the system and wreaking havoc on the nation’s natural resources.
Over the years, illegal mining, or galamsey, has severely affected Ghana’s water bodies and forest reserves. The issue has sparked public outcry, with several protests last year drawing attention to the environmental destruction caused by these activities.
Mr. Buah further assured that, under his leadership, no mining licenses would be issued for operations in forest reserves. He pledged to prioritize sustainable resource management while tackling the political interference that fuels illegal mining.
His comments resonate with long-standing concerns from environmentalists and civil society organizations about the urgent need for stricter policies and enforcement to curb illegal mining.
The minister-designate’s remarks signal a potential shift in addressing the root causes of environmental degradation, focusing on accountability and reform within the political framework.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Gumedzo Isaac Acheampong
