President John Mahama has disclosed that his administration has not issued a single mining license since taking office, emphasizing that protecting Ghana’s forests remains a top priority.
Speaking at his maiden media encounter on Wednesday, September 10, the President said: “Let me be clear, since my administration resumed office, not a single license has been issued to any company to mine in our forest reserves. The repeal of LI 2462 is intended to crystallize in law what we have already demonstrated in practice — our commitment to protect these forest reserves.”
President Mahama also outlined actions against illegal mining, noting that a dedicated national task force is actively combating the menace. “Hundreds of excavators, water pumps, and other heavy equipment have been seized, disrupting networks that have long exploited our lands and rivers,” he stated.
Highlighting environmental gains, he revealed that nine forest reserves have been successfully recovered from illegal miners, restoring these vital ecosystems under state protection.
The President added that long-term restoration efforts are underway through the “Tree for Life” initiative, targeting lands degraded by mining activities.
He assured citizens that accountability remains central to his leadership. “Public accountability and the recovery of looted state resources are among your top expectations, and let me assure you, we have not wavered in our commitment for even a moment,” he said.
Source: [AdomOnline]
