A coalition of civil society organisations, environmental advocates, and concerned citizens has called for urgent leadership changes within Ghana’s minerals and mining regulatory bodies and the government to take immediate steps to address the growing menace of illegal mining in Ghana.

In a press statement released on 7th March 2025, the group highlighted the destruction of forest reserves, the failure of law enforcement, and the need for new leadership to tackle the crisis.

The statement criticised the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulation, 2022 (L.I. 2462), which allows mining in forest reserves. “L.I. 2462 is counterproductive to sustainable development and must be revoked immediately,” the group insisted, demanding that all mining concessions issued for forest reserves be cancelled.

They also raised concerns about the abuse of the tributer mining lease system, calling for stricter monitoring and the online publication of all permits to ensure transparency. Additionally, the group urged authorities to investigate the activities of Nawara and Akooko Mining Companies for alleged encroachment in the Bunso area, which threatens water sources and research sites.

The statement condemned the recent arrest of a Forestry Commission officer who was preventing illegal mining in the Atewa Forest, calling it “an abuse of power that discourages law enforcement from acting against environmental destruction.” The group accused the Kyebi Police of failing to tackle illegal mining in their jurisdiction while misusing their authority against public officers trying to enforce the law.

Demanding stronger leadership, the group called for the removal of Eastern-South Police Commander DCOP George Boadi Bossman and Divisional Police Commander ACP Reynolds Sam for their inability to curb illegal mining. “We need dedicated officers who will prioritise enforcement and stop the impunity of illegal miners,” the statement said.

The group also called on the government to equip the Forestry Commission with the necessary resources to seize and manage excavators used in illegal mining, rather than burning them. They further urged the replacement of the Minerals Commission’s Executive Director, arguing that the current leadership has failed to ensure responsible mining practices.

“The fight against illegal mining requires bold and uncompromising action,” the statement concluded. “We demand a new era of leadership, strong enforcement of laws, and a firm commitment to protecting Ghana’s environment before it is too late.”