Government Names Seven Reclaimed Forest Reserves

Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah is the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources. He announced that his ministry has cleared illegal miners from seven forest reserves.

During a news conference on April 3, 2025, he listed the reclaimed reserves. They include Jimira, Jimira Extension, Afao Hills, Tano Anwia, Ofin Shelterbelt, Anhwiaso East, Anhwiaso South, and Subri.

The minister mentioned ongoing efforts to reclaim two more reserves: Asenayo and Desiri. A joint task force of military personnel and the Forestry Commission has conducted operations in high-risk districts. These operations have led to significant seizures and arrests.

Buah discussed progress made in the government's fight against illegal mining over three months. He described galamsey as a major problem for the nation. The government has developed a comprehensive strategy to promote sustainable mining practices.

He noted that they are engaging parliamentarians, traditional authorities, and advocacy groups for support.

In other successes, Minister Buah highlighted training for 2,000 youth as Blue Water Guards. Over 400 young people will complete their training this month for a second batch of trainees.

He emphasized the importance of this initiative after a tragic incident in Enchi District. A policeman drowned while chasing illegal miners without lifeguards present. Buah stated that trained Blue Water Guards could have prevented this tragedy.

The Trees for Life initiative aims to plant over 7 million seedlings nationwide. This effort seeks to restore degraded areas and support biodiversity and human livelihoods.

Buah outlined a five-pillar strategy to combat illegal mining. The first pillar focuses on reforming the licensing regime for transparency in permits.

The second pillar strengthens law enforcement by cracking down on illegal operations and prosecuting offenders. The third pillar emphasizes stakeholder engagement with traditional leaders and local authorities.

The fourth pillar involves reclaiming degraded lands through responsible mining practices. The fifth pillar supports alternative livelihoods for affected communities.

According to Buah, joint military-forestry operations have seized 100 excavators, three bulldozers, and four vehicles. Geological surveys will be conducted in mineral-rich areas with geo-tagging of excavators for monitoring use.

Public education campaigns on environmental protection will be integrated into school curricula. Additionally, decentralizing mining licenses aims to improve transparency and reduce corruption.

Buah urged traditional leaders and civil society to support efforts against illegal mining. He stressed the need to safeguard Ghana’s natural resources for future generations.