Armah-Kofi Buah: Minister-designate for Lands pledges to end mining in forest reserves

Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Minister-designate for Lands and Natural Resources, reaffirmed his commitment to banning mining activities in Ghana's forest reserves during his vetting by Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Monday, January 27, 2025.

Mr Buah stressed the urgent need to protect Ghana’s forests, describing them as vital to the nation’s survival.

He criticised the environmental destruction caused by illegal mining and reiterated his plan to stop such activities in forest reserves.

“My first priority as Minister will be to amend LI 2462 to ensure that no new mining activities are allowed in forest reserves,” he stated.

Mr Buah also clarified that the damage to the country's forests was not caused by reputable mining companies but by illegal miners, who, he claimed, are often shielded by political forces.

He further echoed President John Dramani Mahama's call for a total ban on mining in forest reserves, stressing the irreplaceable value of the trees over the minerals beneath them.

“If confirmed, my ministry will not issue any new licences for mining in forest reserves,” he pledged. “We are not going to open ourselves up for further damage.”

During the vetting, some MPs raised concerns about the economic contributions of mining companies, but Mr Buah remained resolute in his commitment to environmental conservation.

He stressed that the government would balance the needs of the environment and the economy.

If confirmed, he will face the challenge of navigating the complex relationship between environmental protection and economic growth.