The government has announced plans to repeal the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulations, 2023 (L.I. 2462) when Parliament reconvenes this month.
This decision is part of its broader initiative to strengthen enforcement against illegal mining, particularly in water bodies and forest reserves, which are designated “Red Zones” where all forms of mining are banned.
In a statement issued on Monday, October 7, and signed by Information Minister Fatimatu Abubakar, the government revealed that law enforcement agencies have been fully authorized to eradicate illegal mining activities in these protected areas.
Additionally, the statement disclosed that the Attorney-General will work with the Chief Justice to expedite the prosecution of illegal mining cases, reinforcing the government’s commitment to tackling this destructive practice.
The government also voiced its support for a proposal that all presidential candidates sign a pact pledging to combat illegal mining. It hopes this will depoliticize the issue and encourage unified national efforts to address the environmental crisis.
However, the government expressed surprise at Organised Labour’s decision to proceed with industrial action set for October 10, 2024, after their earlier call for tougher measures against illegal mining.
Despite this, the government reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing engagement with Organised Labour and other stakeholders to find solutions to the challenges posed by illegal mining.
Reiterating its dedication to ending illegal small-scale mining, the government called on all stakeholders to unite in safeguarding Ghana’s natural resources.
