Josiah
Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, has strongly condemned illegal mining, branding it as “economic sabotage” and “an act of environmental terrorism” due to its devastating impact on communities, ecosystems, and the integrity of Ghana’s mining industry.
Speaking on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama at the inauguration of the Association of China-Ghana Mining (ACGM) in Accra, the Minister delivered a firm message on the government’s unwavering commitment to ending illegal mining activities in the country.
“There will be no leniency, no exceptions, and no protection for those who break our mining laws,” he asserted, reinforcing the administration’s zero-tolerance approach.
Armah Kofi Buah underscored the importance of strategic collaboration between the government and the newly formed ACGM to drive innovation, improve mining efficiency, and ensure strict compliance with environmental regulations.
Highlighting China’s advanced expertise in underground mining, low-grade oil development, and technical training, the Minister noted that such partnerships present valuable opportunities for Ghana to strengthen its mining sector and boost global competitiveness.
He made it clear that illegal mining operations—regardless of the perpetrator’s nationality, political ties, or business status—would face the full force of the law. “Illegal mining pollutes our rivers, destroys our forests, and cripples the long-term development of mining communities,” he warned.
The Minister also commended ACGM’s pledge to corporate social responsibility, particularly its establishment of a Community Development Fund aimed at ensuring local communities benefit directly from mining operations.
In his concluding remarks, Armah Kofi Buah stressed that responsible mining must be a collective duty, not only for today but for future generations. He expressed confidence that the partnership between Ghana and China, led by the ACGM, would play a pivotal role in transforming Ghana’s mining industry into one that is both economically vibrant and environmentally sustainable.
Source:Omanghana.com
