The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting sustainable and legal mining practices in Ghana.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, September 11, the ministry stressed that responsible mining remains a priority to protect the environment and ensure the well-being of communities impacted by mining activities.

The ministry highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining, or “galamsey,” which have been intensified under the current administration.

Key initiatives include the deployment of anti-galamsey task forces, stricter monitoring of mining sites, and enhanced enforcement of mining regulations. These measures are intended to clamp down on illegal operations while fostering sustainable practices in the sector.

The statement further noted that following a high-level meeting on Wednesday, stricter guidelines were issued to all Regional Ministers and their security councils to strengthen the fight against illegal mining.

The ministry emphasised the importance of collaboration with traditional leaders, local communities, and civil society organizations in educating the public and holding illegal miners accountable.

Moreover, the ministry encouraged mining companies to comply with environmental and social standards.

It assured the public that the government is actively working on land reclamation projects in areas affected by illegal mining. It remains committed to protecting water bodies and restoring degraded lands.

“Government remains steadfast and committed to restoring order and ensuring that mining activities are conducted sustainably and legally in the national interest. We entreat all and sundry, to support these efforts to enable us to protect our environment, preserve our water bodies, and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.”

“While the government warmly welcomes the heightened interest in this all-important national issue, we urge the discourse to be devoid of partisanship to enable us to galvanise the needed national and collective support to root out this canker,” the statement said.