Ghana needs $21bn to restore lands damaged by illegal mining – Frimpong-Boateng
Former Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, says Ghana will require an estimated $21 billion to reclaim and restore lands degraded largely by illegal mining and other destructive activities. He said about 10 per cent of Ghana’s surface area, equivalent to approximately 23,853 square kilometres, had been degraded, leaving the country […]
Former Environment Minister Prof Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng has warned Ghana will need roughly $21 billion to restore land devastated by illegal mining. About a tenth of the country's surface area, or roughly 23,853 square kilometres, has been degraded. Restoring the degraded lands, especially polluted water bodies like the Ankobra, Pra, Offin, Birim, Anum, Oda and Black, White and Red Volta rivers, could cost around $400 million.
Prof Frimpong-Boateng, who chaired the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining from 2017 to 2021, described galamsey as "the largest environmental crime in our history". He emphasized that the destruction of forests and water bodies is exposing local communities to toxic substances, which can lead to serious health issues.
Despite various efforts, including military operations, bans and alternative livelihood programmes, the issue persists due to lack of enforcement and institutional support. Prof Frimpong-Boateng is now advocating for the creation of an Environmental Restoration Fund, funded by a percentage of mineral royalties, to help with river remediation and land reclamation.
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