Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and Member of Parliament for Bole-Bamboi Constituency in the Savannah Region, Hon. Sulemana Yusif, has made a fervent appeal to the international community for heightened collaboration and support in the ongoing campaign against illegal mining.
Speaking at a Commemorative Tree Planting Ceremony under the Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative, the Deputy Minister reaffirmed the government's resolve to combat the issue. However, he observed that the transboundary nature and sophistication of illegal mining operations necessitate more effective international partnerships.
Speaking on behalf of the substantive Minister, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Hon. Yusif presented a five-pillar strategy guiding Ghana’s efforts against illegal mining:
Transforming the mining licensing regime, Strengthening enforcement mechanisms, Restoring and rehabilitating degraded lands, Providing alternative livelihoods for affected communities, Enhancing engagement with local and international stakeholders.
He however cautioned that, the illegal mining activities poses 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.
The Tree for Life Initiative, launched in March 2025, designates June as Green Month, a period of nationwide mobilization involving schools, civil society, private entities, and international partners.
The campaign emphasizes 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 optimistic that global partners will match this resolve with long-term investments and technical collaboration.
