The Lands and Natural Resources Minister nominee, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has assured Ghanaians that there will be no new mining activities in forest reserves if his appointment is approved. 

He made this strong commitment during his vetting before the Appointments Committee of Parliament on Monday, January 27, 2025. 

According to him, his stance reflects the government’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable natural resource management.

In response to a question, Mr Buah emphasised the need for decisive action to protect forest reserves from mining activities. 

He stated, “We have said that there will be no new mining activities in forest reserves, and the intention is to make sure that L.I. 2462 is amended to ensure that the provision allowing for mining in reserves is not in place.” 

He added that the declaration signals the government’s determination to prioritise environmental preservation as a key aspect of its agenda.

The minister nominee further elaborated on his plans to safeguard Ghana’s natural resources, stressing that the amendment of Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2462 would be one of his first major undertakings if given the mandate. 

“If you give me the chance, my first activity will be to ensure that there will be no new mining activities in forest reserves.” 

In his estimation, this policy change aims to halt any future encroachments on forest lands for mining purposes.