We must completely reform the licensing regime – Lands Minister

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has stressed the urgent need for a comprehensive reform of Ghana’s mining licensing regime to address the environmental crisis caused by illegal and unregulated mining activities.

Speaking on JoyNews‘ Newsfile on Saturday, March 22, he noted that the licensing regime must begin at the local level, adding that the Ministry would create District Community Licenses Committees made up of the District Security Council (DISEC).

Commenting on the state of the country’s forests and water bodies, the minister highlighted the devastating impact of mining, citing alarming reports from the Water Resources Commission and the Forestry Commission.

He revealed that water treatment levels, which should ideally be at 500, have skyrocketed to between 5,000 and 12,000, making it impossible for treatment plants to function effectively. Additionally, out of Ghana’s 288 forest reserves, 44 have been completely destroyed, with nine classified under critical risk levels.

“We must completely reform the licensing regime and strengthen law enforcement. This requires political will and leadership, and I am very clear in my mind about the support and commitment of President John Mahama. He has given me clear instructions—this fight must be won for the people of Ghana, for our forests, our water bodies, and our future,” the minister declared.

The Ellembelle MP underscored the importance of national engagement and education, emphasising that protecting Ghana’s natural resources is a collective responsibility.

“This fight is not just for the Ministry of Lands or the government alone; it is for the people of Ghana. There must be areas we collectively agree are no-go zones—not our water bodies, not our forests, because these are the sources of life,” he stated.

The minister further outlined key initiatives to support alternative livelihoods, such as the “Tree for Life” initiative and other programs aimed at sustainable land use and youth empowerment. He also stressed the need for aggressive reclamation and re-vegetation of degraded lands, ensuring that mining-damaged areas are restored.