Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, has reiterated the government’s unshakable commitment to combating unlawful mining, often known as galamsey, despite acknowledging the substantial obstacles in the way.
The minister stressed that the government is still committed to restoring degraded lands, safeguarding the country’s forests, and recovering contaminated water bodies while speaking to the Government Accountability Series on Wednesday, July 15. He described illegal mining as one of Ghana’s biggest environmental threats.
He claims that although the scope of illicit mining operations across the nation has made the battle difficult, the government is stepping up efforts to address the issue by working with state agencies, law enforcement organizations, and local populations.
The minister stated that safeguarding Ghana’s natural resources is an unavoidable national duty and that future generations should inherit a nation with thriving forests, healthy rivers, and responsibly managed mineral resources.
He emphasized that the days of criminals operating with impunity are past and that the government will continue to prosecute individuals and organizations engaged in environmentally harmful actions.
“The fight against illegal mining is a defining environmental battle that our generation must fight. Our rivers are not for sale, our forests are not expendable, our mineral wealth is a sacred inheritance that we have a duty to protect. The era of impunity is over, and the government will continue to pursue everyone who profits from the destruction of our environment.
“The battle against illegal mining is difficult but the Ghanaian spirit is stronger. We will not retreat, we will not relent and we will not surrender, but we shall reclaim our rivers, restore our forests, protect our natural wealth and secure a greener, stronger and more prosperous Ghana for posterity” He said.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com
