The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has issued a strong warning to individuals engaged in mining activities within Ghana’s forest reserves.

Speaking in an interview with Channel One TV on Wednesday, March 26, he emphasised that any form of mining in these protected areas is illegal and will not be tolerated by the government.

He assured that all offenders, regardless of their status, will face the full force of the law.

Mr Armah-Kofi Buah stressed that forest reserves are critical to the country’s environmental sustainability and must be preserved.

“Anybody mining in our forest reserves is engaging in an illegality and will be dealt with,” he declared.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting Ghana’s natural resources and warned that law enforcement agencies have been directed to clamp down on illegal operations within these reserves.

The Minister also highlighted the devastating impact of illegal mining on the country’s forests, rivers, and biodiversity.

He noted that such activities have led to deforestation, water pollution, and the destruction of ecosystems that are vital to both human life and wildlife.

He urged all individuals and businesses involved in mining to operate within the confines of the law and to avoid restricted areas.

He called on traditional authorities, local leaders, and citizens to support the government’s fight against illegal mining.

He emphasised that environmental protection is a shared responsibility and urged all stakeholders to collaborate in safeguarding Ghana’s forest reserves for generations.