Omane Boamah warns illegal miners: Stay away from forest reserves

Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah has issued a strong warning to illegal miners to stay away from Ghana’s forest reserves.

In a statement posted on his official Facebook page today, March 10, 2025, he said:

“No human being resides in the forest reserves! In the name of God and Ghana, stay away from the forest reserves and galamsey. A word to the wise is enough! Stop galamsey! If you’re interested in mining, seek the necessary regulatory permits. We’ll not talk much…”

His warning comes amid renewed government efforts to curb illegal mining, which continues to threaten Ghana’s environment.

President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated his administration’s stance on illegal mining. In his recent State of the Nation Address, he stated: “My government is implementing proactive measures to deal with galamsey.”

He further stressed the need for stricter enforcement, saying, “We cannot allow illegal mining to destroy our rivers, forests, and farmlands. Those who engage in it must stop, or they will face the full force of the law.”

The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has also raised concerns about illegal mining in protected areas.

Speaking at a recent event, he warned: “Forty-four of Ghana’s forest reserves are under threat from illegal miners,” and assured the public that the government was taking decisive action, adding: “We are coming after you. If you think you can destroy our environment and get away with it, you are mistaken.”

The fight against illegal mining has come with challenges. On February 22, 2025, Akwasi Agyei Annim, a Western Regional correspondent for Citi News, was assaulted while covering illegal mining activities in the Breman-Adomanya forest in the Wassa Amenfi West District.

The attack has drawn condemnation from media organisations and civil society groups, who have called for better protection for journalists reporting on environmental issues.

Despite government interventions, illegal mining remains a pressing issue. Authorities have urged local communities, traditional leaders, and industry players to support enforcement efforts to safeguard Ghana’s forests and water bodies for future generations.