The former Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abdulai Jinapor, has called on the John Mahama government to fulfil its campaign promise of banning all forms of mining in forest reserves.

According to the Damongo MP, many Ghanaians voted for President John Mahama based on this pledge, and it is now time for the government to deliver.

He said this during the vetting of the Lands Minister-designate, Emmanuel Armah Kofi-Buah, on Monday, January 27, 2024.

The ban on mining in forest reserves was a central issue in the lead-up to the general elections, with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) promising to prohibit all forms of mining in these areas.

While serving as Minister, Mr Jinapor defended the operations of large-scale mining companies like Newmont and AngloGold, arguing that a blanket ban would be unfeasible.

These companies, he explained, have contributed significantly to the economy through sustainable practices and the creation of jobs.

However, the NDC took a different stance.

During a public lecture in Kumasi on June 20, 2024, candidate John Mahama stated that he would ban all mining in forest reserves because many of the trees in these reserves, which are over 700 years old, are more precious than any mineral beneath them.

He reiterated this promise in Accra on July 7, 2024, emphasising that the ban is not negotiable.

During the vetting, Mr Jinapor questioned Mr Kofi-Buah on whether the NDC would honour its promise.

The Minister-designate suggested that large-scale mining companies were not responsible for forest degradation.

This prompted the former Minister to remind him of the commitment made to Ghanaians.

Mr Kofi-Buah, while acknowledging the issue, stated that he would assess the situation before making any definitive decisions.