Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, has raised concerns about the increasing devastation of Ghana’s forest reserves due to illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey.

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According to him, nearly 10 out of the 44 forest reserves have been completely taken over by illegal miners, rendering them inaccessible to the Forestry Commission.

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Addressing Parliament on Tuesday, the Minister stated, "Over nine out of the 44 forest reserves have been completely taken over by these illegal mining thugs with impunity. The Forestry Commission no longer has access to these forest reserves."

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He further revealed that an estimated 5,000 hectares of forest land have already been destroyed—an area equivalent to approximately 7,000 football fields.

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This devastation, he noted, has led to severe deforestation, water pollution, and the loss of biodiversity in affected areas.

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"In the short term, we want to clear all water bodies of illegal mining activities through the use of river guards under our Blue Water Initiative. Details of this initiative will be provided during its launch in the coming weeks," he said.

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The Minister also emphasized the need for stronger law enforcement and regulatory measures.

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"Engagement of stakeholders at all levels is key. Among other things, the intention is to strengthen our regulatory and law enforcement regime. But when we look at the numbers, the situation is discouraging. In the last few years, the number of prosecutions for illegal mining has not been very encouraging. Out of over 800 cases, fewer than 40 individuals have been prosecuted," he stated.

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With illegal mining continuing to threaten the country’s environmental and economic stability, the government's renewed commitment to tackling the menace will be closely watched by environmentalists, policymakers, and the general public.

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