President John Mahama says his administration has not issued a single mining license since taking office.

Speaking at his maiden media encounter on Wednesday, September 10, he stressed that protecting Ghana’s forests remains a priority.

“Let me be clear, since my administration resumed office, not a single license has been issued to any company to mine in our forest reserves.

"The repeal of Li 2462 is, therefore, intended just to crystallise in law what we have already demonstrated in practice, which is our commitment to protect these forest reserves.”

President Mahama outlined sweeping actions against illegal mining.

“A dedicated national task force is currently in place, actively combating the menace of illegal mining. As a result of their operations, hundreds of excavators, water pumps and other heavy equipment have been seized, disrupting the networks that have long exploited our lands and our rivers.”

The President also highlighted gains in reclaiming degraded lands.

“Nine forest reserves have been successfully recovered from the grip of illegal miners, restoring these vital ecosystems under state protection.”

President John Mahama said government is focused on long-term restoration efforts.

“Our tree for life initiative is being actively rolled out across the country, targeting the restoration of lands degraded by legal mining activities.”

He assured citizens that accountability remains central to his leadership.

“My friends understand that public accountability and the recovery of looted state resources are the top of your expectations from my government, and let me assure you, my fellow citizens, that we’ve not wavered in our commitment for even a moment, neither have we been complacent.”