48 forest reserves have been breached by illegal miners- Mahama
By Owusu Emmanuella Akoto President John Dramani Mahama has revealed that illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, has affected 48 of Ghana’s 288 forest reserves, with about 12,000 acres of land destroyed. Speaking on Monday, October 19, 2026, at the Mining in Motion Summit at the Destiny Arena in Haatso, Accra, the President said nine […]
Ghana's President John Dramani Mahama has disclosed that illegal mining, or "galamsey," has impacted 48 of the country's 288 forest reserves, resulting in the destruction of approximately 12,000 acres of land. During the Mining in Motion Summit on October 19, 2026, at the Destiny Arena in Haatso, Accra, Mahama stated that nine reserves have been designated as red zones due to the presence of heavily armed illegal miners.
These areas have been cleared of illegal miners and are now being prepared for restoration. Among the items seized in the anti-illegal mining campaign are over 8,200 pieces of equipment, 135 excavators, and nearly 200 firearms. The government has allocated GH¢200 million for the reclamation of 5,000 acres of degraded land, with the Ghana Armed Forces set to begin work on reclaiming 253 acres in the Tano Nimiri Forest.
Mahama urged delegates to focus on adding value to Africa's mineral resources, suggesting that ships departing from Takoradi should primarily carry products that reflect African innovation, enterprise, and artistry. He emphasized the importance of leaving the summit with a shared commitment to action, stating that the continent should unite under a common purpose and a practical plan to ensure prosperity for its people.
Written by urgent.news from GBC Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
