Soldiers to remain in nine cleared forest reserves to prevent galamsey – Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama disclosed that soldiers will maintain a presence in nine forest reserves cleared of illegal mining activities to deter them from returning. He explained that previous attempts to clear these reserves had been unsuccessful due to illegal miners returning after military personnel withdrew. Mahama highlighted the dangers faced by forest guards, who have been targeted and suffered casualties during their efforts to protect the areas.

He stressed the importance of stronger collaboration between the government and traditional authorities to combat illegal mining, particularly in communities where young people and some traditional leaders have resisted efforts by the National Inter-Ministerial Coordinating Committee on Illegal Mining (NAIMOS). The President expressed concern over the deaths of soldiers during enforcement operations, urging for stronger community engagement and cooperation with traditional leaders to prevent further loss of life.

He also announced the initiation of a GoldBod programme in partnership with the military to restore degraded lands and replant trees in destroyed forest areas. The initiative aims to reclaim and reforest damaged land, forming part of broader efforts to protect Ghana's forest resources.