Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah is the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources
Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has presented a new legislative instrument before Parliament seeking to revoke L.I. 2462, the regulation that granted the President authority to issue mining leases within forest reserves.
The decision represents a major policy reversal aimed at reinforcing environmental protection and combating deforestation linked to mining activities. L.I. 2462, which came into force in 2022, allowed the President discretionary powers to approve mining operations in forest reserves.
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Addressing the media in Parliament on Friday, October 31, 2025, he explained that the government had listened to persistent public outcry and carried out a comprehensive consultation and review process, leading to the decision to revoke the instrument entirely.
He recalled that Regulation 32 of L.I. 2462 was previously deleted to limit presidential powers, paving the way for L.I. 2501, which came into effect on June 2, 2025.
“After continued public concern and a full review, it became clear that we could completely revoke that L.I. and rely on the guidelines enacted in 2020,” the Minister stated.
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He emphasised that the move demonstrates the government’s unwavering commitment to protecting Ghana’s pristine forest reserves, safeguarding the environment, and ensuring sustainable management of the country’s natural resources.
“It must send a clear message that this government is committed to protecting our pristine forest reserves and the environment. We are keeping our word, providing guidance, and taking every step in line with what President Mahama has been preaching,” he noted.
Once approved by Parliament, the new instrument will permanently remove the President’s unilateral power to grant mining permits in protected forest areas, restoring stricter safeguards over Ghana’s forest ecosystems.
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