Lands Minister Calls for Broader Engagement on the Fight Against Galamsey
Minister Urges National Unity to Tackle Illegal Mining Crisis
- Illegal miners have devastated over 5,000 hectares of land, equal to 7,500 football pitches
- The minister urges Parliament and all Ghanaians to unite in the fight against galamsey
- Immediate measures are being taken to restore forests and water bodies
The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, who also doubles as the MP for Ellembelle, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, has addressed the august House on the pressing issues facing the nation, particularly the devastating scourge of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.
Providing an update on the dire situation, he highlighted its catastrophic effects on forests and water bodies and outlined the solutions identified, along with the expedited actions being taken to address this national emergency.
The legislator stated categorically that out of the 288 forest reserves, a whopping 44 are under serious attack by illegal miners, with an estimated area of over 5,000 hectares—equivalent to about 7,500 standard football pitches—devastated. This is mostly occurring in the Ashanti Bekwai, Nkawie, Western Tarkwa & Daboase, and Western North Bibiani, Enchi & Juaboso regions.
“I am here today to solicit the unwavering support of this House and my Honorable Colleagues to join me in this fight. This is not a battle for one individual but a collective struggle that demands unified efforts to achieve meaningful and lasting results,” he said.
The minister made a heartfelt appeal to all Ghanaians and Members of Parliament to join the fight against galamsey for the sake of future generations, emphasizing the need to safeguard the environment and secure a sustainable future for the nation.
