Galamsey: All 9 red-zoned forest reserves previously occupied by armed gangs repossessed – Lands Minister

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has announced that the Forestry Commission, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, has successfully repossessed all nine red-zoned forest reserves previously occupied by armed gangs protecting illegal miners.

The minister made this statement during the Wednesday, July 23, 2025, edition of the Government Accountability Series, held at the Jubilee House to brief the public on ministerial activities and government efforts to fulfill its mandate.

“One of the greatest challenges of the forestry sub-sector is deforestation and forest degradation, largely due to illegal mining (galamsey), illegal logging, wildfires, and unsustainable agricultural practices. Within forest reserves alone, over 5,500 hectares—equivalent to 7,500 football fields—have been degraded. I am happy to announce that, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, the Forestry Commission has successfully repossessed all nine red-zoned forest reserves previously occupied by armed gangs protecting illegal miners,” he stated.

Additionally, he disclosed that 279 trucks transporting illegal lumber were intercepted, fined, and their cargo confiscated and auctioned as part of efforts to curb illegal logging and promote sustainable forestry practices.

The minister also outlined Ghana’s progress in promoting legal timber trade through a Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) with the European Union. The agreement ensures that only legally sourced timber from sustainably managed forests is exported to the EU market.

“Ghana is at the final stage of completing the processes for issuing the Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (FLEGT) license, which will accompany all wood exports to the EU,” he said.

The minister emphasized the government’s resolve to combat galamsey through enhanced law enforcement, stakeholder collaboration, and the use of technology to monitor mining activities.

“Let me make it clear: the Ministry is under no illusion that the fight against illegal mining is an easy one—we know that it is a marathon, not a sprint. We will definitely prevail! We are also not against mining, but we believe that mining must be done responsibly and sustainably, and we will do everything to support responsible mining. But, ladies and gentlemen, we have drawn a line in the sand, and we will fight against irresponsible, reckless mining activities in any form.

“Let me also assure the good people of Ghana that we are steadfast, committed, and focused on winning this fight of our lifetime. With the political will and support of H.E. President John Dramani Mahama, we will ensure that our water bodies are turned blue, our forests are turned green, and our environment is restored and preserved for posterity,” he said.

He urged Ghanaians to report illegal activities to support efforts to eliminate galamsey and foster a sustainable mining sector that prioritizes environmental protection.

GA

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