Illegal Mining Has Destroyed 12,000 Acres of Land as Newmont Reclaims 800 Acres for Farming

President John Dramani Mahama has disclosed that illegal mining has degraded approximately 12,000 acres of land in Ghana, while mining company Newmont has supported the reclamation of 800 acres for agricultural production.

The President made the remarks at the African Minerals Policy Centre’s 2026 Mining in Motion Forum, where he highlighted the environmental consequences of illegal mining and the importance of restoring degraded land for productive use.

Mahama said the scale of land destruction caused by illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, underscores the urgent need for stronger environmental protection measures and coordinated efforts to rehabilitate affected areas.

Illegal mining has become a major concern in Ghana because of its impact on forests, agricultural land and water bodies. Mining activities carried out without adequate safeguards can leave land unsuitable for cultivation, destroy vegetation and disrupt the livelihoods of farming communities.

The President’s disclosure also drew attention to the role mining companies can play in environmental restoration. Newmont’s reported reclamation of 800 acres for crop production provides an example of efforts to return degraded land to agricultural use.

Land reclamation involves restoring damaged areas through activities such as reshaping the landscape, improving soil conditions and re-establishing vegetation. Where restoration is successful, affected land may once again support farming and other productive activities.

The use of reclaimed land for crop cultivation could help improve food production, create livelihood opportunities and support communities affected by mining. However, the suitability of restored sites for agriculture depends on soil quality, water availability and appropriate environmental assessments.

Mahama’s remarks come amid wider government efforts to address illegal mining and strengthen responsible resource management. The government has also highlighted the need for mining operators to comply with environmental regulations and take responsibility for rehabilitating areas affected by their activities.

The reported figures, however, leave questions about the locations of the 12,000 acres of degraded land, the areas restored by Newmont and the timeline for the reclamation work.

The President’s statement reinforces the need for collaboration among government agencies, mining companies, traditional authorities and local communities to reverse environmental damage.

Ultimately, restoring degraded land will require sustained investment, effective monitoring and measures to prevent renewed illegal mining in rehabilitated areas.

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