Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah
The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has announced government plans to actively involve local authorities in the fight against illegal mining (galamsey).
This comes in the wake of approximately 16% of Ghana’s land reserves already being lost to the practice.
Speaking at an orientation session for Municipal, Metropolitan, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, the minister emphasised that the government intends to decentralise efforts to combat the widespread degradation caused by illegal mining.
“Chiefs and MMDCEs will play a crucial role in fighting galamsey,” the minister stressed, noting that traditional leaders and local government officials will now assume direct oversight responsibility for monitoring mining activities within their jurisdictions.
“The decentralised system will drive a bottom-up approach to allow your involvement in the issuance of mining licenses,” he added.
The new policy direction forms part of broader stakeholder initiatives aimed at curbing galamsey and restoring Ghana’s polluted water bodies and degraded lands.
The announcement comes amid increasing calls for traditional authorities to support government efforts to clamp down on illegal mining operations.
In his address, the minister further outlined the government’s five-pronged strategy to tackle the menace, namely:
Reclaiming degraded mining areas
Providing alternative livelihoods for affected communities
Strengthening law enforcement
Reforming licensing regimes
Enhancing stakeholder education and engagement
He therefore urged the newly appointed MMDCEs to fully commit to the cause of halting the devastation of Ghana’s lands, warning that defaulters and collaborators in illicit activities will face the full rigours of the law.
He assured them of the Ministry’s full support and unwavering dedication to the fight.
The involvement of local authorities is expected to ensure sustainable land management while safeguarding Ghana’s natural resources for posterity.
AM/KA
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