Mining must benefit communities without destroying their environment – Lands Minister

Ghana's Lands and Natural Resources Minister, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, emphasized that responsible mining is a critical indicator of the nation's progress. Speaking at the 2026 Mining in Motion Conference, he highlighted that the communities residing near mineral resources must reap the benefits of mining while safeguarding their lands and water bodies from environmental degradation.

"Responsible mining is another measure of our progress," Buah stated, adding that the people closest to mineral wealth should recognize its benefits without bearing its costs.

Buah announced that Ghana had withdrawn the permit allowing mining activities in forest reserves and intensified efforts to curb illegal mining and environmental destruction. He also disclosed that the government is committed to rehabilitating affected lands and supporting lawful small-scale miners to improve their operations, safety, and adopt more sustainable mining practices.

One such initiative is the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme, aimed at promoting responsible practices in the small-scale mining sector.

The Minister stressed that assessing Ghana's progress in managing mineral resources should go beyond merely considering mining revenues; it should also focus on the impact on the lives of people in mining communities. "A country cannot claim mining success if families suffer from a lack of safe water or a future after mineral extraction," Buah warned.

He underscored the importance of community development agreements, transparent oversight, and credible environmental obligations to ensure that mining activities generate lasting benefits for host communities. Buah noted that these measures are crucial for fostering trust in the mining sector and ensuring companies fulfill their responsibilities to communities and the environment.

Buah assured investors, financiers, technology partners, and international development institutions that Ghana is committed to reforming the governance of its mineral wealth and improving how its benefits are shared. He acknowledged that meaningful reforms require consultation, adjustment, and patience, urging constructive engagement from all stakeholders as the process advances.

"I ask for your understanding and constructive engagement as this work moves forward. In return, we should expect clear rules, fair administration, open dialogue, and respect for lawful agreements," Buah said.

He emphasized that mining investments must be commercially viable and capable of delivering reasonable returns while assuring partners that Ghana is prepared to collaborate with them towards this objective. Buah stressed that Ghana's approach to mineral development must strike a balance between investment and commercial viability, environmental responsibility, community welfare, and accountability.