In the wake of growing environmental concerns, the Chief Executive Officer of Betterland Ghana Limited, Isaac Osei, has reiterated that their mining activities in the Draw Forest Reserve have no adverse effects on the Ankobra River.

Speaking at a media engagement in Takoradi, Mr Osei emphasised that their operations cover less than ten percent of the Draw Forest Reserve in the Dwira Nzema East Municipality of the Western Region.

A petition dated May 14, 2024, and signed by the Ghana Environmental Advocacy Group, expressed concerns over the mining rights (License #ML2/236) granted to Betterland Ghana Ltd, a subsidiary of Tower Assets Ltd.

The petition highlights the potential environmental impact of mining diamonds, lithium, and gold in a substantial portion of the Draw River Forest Reserve over a ten-year period.

According to the advocacy group, the Draw River Forest Reserve is a Globally Significant Biodiversity Area (GSBA) and remains the only unharmed forest in the Dwira area.

This region has already suffered extensive damage from illegal mining activities (galamsey), leaving rivers and streams contaminated and the landscape riddled with open pits that pose significant risks, especially to children.

During the media engagement, Mr Isaac Osei addressed what he described as misinformation by the Ghana Environmental Advocacy Group.

He clarified that Betterland Ghana had followed proper procedures to secure their mining license and had not yet commenced operations in the designated portion of the Draw Forest Reserve. He was firm in stating that their mining activities would not affect the Ankobra River basin.

"Our operations are limited to a specific part of the Draw Forest Reserve and do not encroach on the Ankobra River basin. We are committed to responsible mining practices that protect the environment."

David Thomas, the Project Coordinator for Betterland Ghana, further elaborated on their environmental initiatives.

He highlighted their successful reclamation efforts at the Apraprama Forest Reserve in the Ashanti Region, where the company has rehabilitated over one hundred thousand hectares of land previously devastated by illegal mining.

Thomas presented this as evidence of the company's capability and commitment to land restoration.

"Our reclamation work at the Apraprama Forest Reserve demonstrates that it is possible to restore land for productive use. We are dedicated to applying these same principles to any areas we mine."

As Betterland Ghana prepares to begin their mining operations, they face the challenge of balancing economic interests with environmental stewardship.

The company’s assurances come amidst heightened scrutiny and advocacy for the preservation of Ghana’s natural resources.