The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has been walking the talk regarding the fight against illegal mining and the protection of the environment as it has collaborated with the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology to establish a committee to develop a blueprint for the reformation and sanitization of the mining sector.

The 18-member committee, Chaired by Professor Oteng Ababio of the University of Ghana, has been given a two-week ultimatum to develop and create a strategy that will serve as the vade mecum for reforming Ghana’s mining sector.

In accordance with its terms of reference, the committee will, among other things, review the licensing regime and procedures in the mining industry, assess mining activities in forest reserves, suggest methods to stop mining in water bodies and propose solutions to address issues facing the mining sector.

Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah recognized the mining sector as a critical component of Ghana’s economic development, noting that all efforts must be geared towards ridding the sector of excesses to ensure maximum benefit. Hence, the inauguration of the committee comprising of select individuals of high competency across diverse backgrounds with the technical know-how in the fight against illegal mining and the transformation of the mining sector.

He lamented the wanton destruction of Ghana’s river and forest resources, noting that 15% (a staggering 44) out of Ghana’s 288 forest reserves have become victims of indiscriminate illegal mining activities.

Leveraging a presentation from the institutions in the Water And Resources sector, the Minister noted worryingly that the water being consumed by Ghanaians is nearly poisonous and that radical measures are needed to address it.

He noted that H.E. President John Dramani Mahama made a commitment to Ghanaians to restore the color and quality of the country’s water bodies to their natural status and also restore the forest reserves and that he is bent on delivering on the commitment to Ghanaians.

He expressed confidence in the respected members of the committee to sacrifice their time and resources to deliver an efficient blueprint that would help save Ghana from the destructive effects of galamsey.

On his part, the Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, Hon. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed emphasized that the challenge facing the country in the fight against illegal mining and the mission to protect Ghana’s forest and waterbodies is multifaceted one which requires a multifaceted approach.

He stated that through broad stakeholder collaborations, Ghana under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama will turn the corner in the fight against galamsey.

Nana Agyeman Badu II, Dormahene – a member of the committee, and the Representative of the National House of Chiefs in his remarks commended the efforts of the government and assured of the unwavering support of the Traditional Authorities in the fight.  

He also expressed confidence in the committee members to deliver on their mandate and assured that the ministries will provide support for the committee to work effectively.

The Chairman of the committee, Professor Oteng Ababio thanked the Ministers for their commitment, assured them of quality work, and promised to deliver during the two-week ultimatum given.

The committee is made up of experts from the offices of;

• The Attorney-General and Minister for Justice,

• Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology,

• Forestry Commission

• Environmental Protection Agency

• Minerals Commission

• Centre for Extractive Development – Africa (CEDA) representing Civil Society

• Ghana Chamber of Mines

• Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners

• Water Resources Commission

• The Ghana Armed Forces

• The Ghana Police Service

• National House of Chiefs

• Lands Commission

• Ghana Geological Survey Authority

• Technical Directors of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources – Mines, Forestry and Lands