Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama has delivered a scathing attack on illegal mining operations in Ghana’s protected lands, accusing operators and their backers of reckless environmental destruction driven by “pure greed.” In a strong statement, Mahama vowed to bring an end to galamsey in forest reserves, promising to strip the president of discretionary powers to approve mining in such areas.
Mahama announced plans to amend the Minerals and Mining Act to permanently ban mining in forest reserves, stating, “Not a single tree more will fall to this madness.” He emphasized that there will be no more backdoor deals or exceptions, warning that those involved in illegal mining will face the full weight of the law.
The government, Mahama said, has already made progress in reclaiming damaged reserves, launching a task force, and allocating resources to reforestation and alternative livelihoods. While green advocacy groups have praised the crackdown, political insiders suggest it may trigger pushback from entrenched networks with economic ties to illegal mining.
Sankofaonline
