A coalition of 17 Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) has commended the Government and Parliament for the revocation of Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2462, describing the move as a major breakthrough for environmental protection and forest governance.
The groups said the repeal shields Ghana’s forest reserves, including Globally Significant Biodiversity Areas, from the risks posed by mining activities allowed under the regulation.
“This represents one of the most significant and progressive legislative reversals in Ghana’s recent environmental history,” the statement noted, adding that the decision restores hope for the country’s fast-depleting forest estate.
The repeal follows sustained advocacy and a new Legislative Instrument laid before Parliament on October 31 by the Acting Minister for Environment, Science and Technology and Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah.
After completing the constitutionally required 21 sitting days without objection, the annulment took effect.
The organisations said L.I. 2462, introduced in 2022, undermined decades of forest conservation efforts and contradicted the Forest Development Master Plan (2016–2036), which aims to phase out mining in forest reserves by 2036.
They also acknowledged the role of the media and public advocacy in securing the repeal, stating that “together, we have contributed our quota to give forests and future generations a chance.”
Despite welcoming the repeal, the groups cautioned that illegal mining, logging and poaching continue to threaten forest reserves, insisting that sustained vigilance and stronger governance will be required to protect Ghana’s natural heritage.
By Noble Crosby Annan
