Mahama to dismiss appointees who indulge in mining activities

**President Mahama Launches Tree for Life Initiative**

President John Dramani Mahama has warned government appointees against mining activities. He stated that those involved could face sanctions, including dismissal. Appointees interested in mining must resign to avoid consequences.

The President spoke last Friday at Nkawie. This was during the launch of the Tree for Life Initiative. The initiative aims to restore landscapes damaged by illegal mining and deforestation.

The Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative is led by the National Democratic Congress (NDC). It focuses on sustainable forest management and conservation efforts. The goal is to combat biodiversity loss, water pollution, climate change, and environmental degradation.

The initiative also aims to raise awareness about trees and conservation. It seeks to enhance biodiversity through ecosystem restoration. Additionally, it plans to restore polluted water bodies and watersheds.

Job creation is another objective of the initiative. It will promote agroforestry, fish farming, apiculture, and urban greening. Integrating tree planting into cities is a key part of this effort.

Education and outreach are crucial components of the initiative. Community durbars will be held with chiefs and traditional leaders. There will also be radio programs, school events, church activities, and flyers produced.

President Mahama instructed Regulatory and Security Agencies to intensify operations against illegal mining. Significant progress has been made in reclaiming no-go zones. Seven out of nine zones have been reclaimed so far.

He reported seizing 55 excavators, two bulldozers, three pickups, four raffles, and 11 motorbikes from illegal miners. Seventy-one individuals engaged in illegal mining within Forest Reserves have been remanded.

The Minister for Environment laid L.I. 2462 before Parliament recently. Once matured in 21 days, it will limit presidential power over mining in forest reserves.

The government plans to reclaim degraded lands annually. A pilot project has already restored 16 acres successfully. They aim to extend this program to reclaim 500 acres each year.

President Mahama emphasized that the initiative focuses on sustainability. It's not just about planting trees but ensuring they thrive long-term for communities' benefit. The program will prioritize rehabilitating lands destroyed by illegal mining.

Collaboration with traditional leaders, local communities, and youth groups is essential for restoring these lands into productive green spaces supporting agriculture and eco-tourism.