The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Sulemana Yusif, has made a compelling call to the international community for greater collaboration and support in the ongoing battle against illegal mining.
Speaking at a Commemorative Tree Planting Ceremony under the Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative, the Deputy Minister highlighted the government’s commitment to tackling the menace.
However, he noted that the transboundary nature and sophistication of illegal mining operations necessitate stronger international partnerships.
Delivering his remarks on behalf of the substantive Minister, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Hon. Yusif outlined a five-pillar strategy guiding Ghana’s efforts against illegal mining:
- Reforming the mining licensing regime,
- Strengthening enforcement mechanisms,
- Reclaiming and restoring degraded lands,
- Providing alternative livelihoods for affected communities,
- Deepening engagement with both local and international stakeholders.
He however cautioned that, the illegal mining activities pose a significant threat to the nation’s environment, water bodies, and long-term sustainable development.
The Deputy Minister also spotlighted Ghana’s broader environmental agenda, particularly through the Tree for Life initiative, which aims to plant 30 million tree seedlings in 2025.
The project is part of efforts to promote urban greening, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable land management.
Prof. Martin Oteng-Ababio, Chairman of the Forestry Commission Board, echoed the urgency of global cooperation. He praised the diplomatic community for their support and framed the day’s event as a symbol of renewed commitment to environmental stewardship.
Representing the Diplomatic Corps, Lebanese Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Maher Kheir, reaffirmed their alignment with Ghana’s green development agenda.
Launched in March 2025, the Tree for Life Initiative designates June as Green Month—a period of nationwide mobilization involving schools, civil society, private entities, and international partners.
The campaign focuses on reforestation, ecosystem preservation, water body restoration, and the creation of green jobs for communities impacted by illegal mining.
As Ghana deepens its commitment to environmental protection and sustainable land use, government officials are hopeful that global partners will match this resolve with long-term investments and technical collaboration.
