President John Dramani Mahama has issued a clear directive to government officials, banning them from participating in any type of mining, whether legal or illegal, with immediate effect. The President made this announcement during the launch of the ‘Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative’ in Atwima Nwabiagya South Municipality, emphasising that any government appointee wishing to engage in mining must first resign from their position.
Addressing the crowd, President Mahama was firm in his stance, stating, “I have ordered that no appointee at any level of government should be involved in mining activities, whether legal or illegal. Those who want to mine must leave government and pursue mining as a career.” His comments were met with enthusiastic applause from the audience.
Reaffirming his determination to tackle illegal mining, President Mahama warned that any government official found violating this order would face strict consequences, including dismissal from office. He also called on security and regulatory bodies to intensify efforts against illegal mining, citing the recent reclamation of seven out of nine “no-go zone” forest reserves previously overrun by illegal miners.
In an ongoing crackdown, authorities have seized 55 excavators, three bulldozers, three pickup trucks, four pump-action rifles, and 11 motorbikes. The President described the impact of illegal mining as a crisis affecting the nation’s economy, public health, and the livelihoods of citizens. “Farmers are losing their lands, rivers are becoming polluted, and entire communities are being harmed,” he lamented.
The ‘Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative’ is part of President Mahama’s 120-day commitment to the people of Ghana. Led by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the initiative aims to restore lands that have been damaged by illegal mining and deforestation, contributing to broader environmental restoration goals.
Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, stressed the urgency of this initiative, noting that Ghana’s forests are being depleted at an alarming rate, posing significant ecological risks. He stated, “This initiative aims to transform severely degraded lands into thriving ecosystems that can support biodiversity and the livelihoods of local communities.”
The Minister also explained that the programme would help rehabilitate damaged areas while raising awareness about environmental protection, promoting tree planting, and enhancing biodiversity through effective ecosystem restoration.
