Akufo-Addo Suspends Mining In Forest Reserves With Immediate Effect

President Nana Akufo-Addo has heeded the calls on him to take immediate action to remedy the galamsey situation in Ghana.

The President has come under intense criticisms over the galamsey activities which keep on destroying the water bodies and environment.

As a result, Organized Labour threatened a nationwide strike whereas some youth of Ghana also embarked on demonstrations to register their displeasure.

The President, in a meeting with Organized Labour to call off their strike on Thursday, October 10, indicated measures he has undertaken to address this perennial problem.

He has instructed for an immediate suspension of all mining activities in forest reserves.

"The President has instructed the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, along with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to suspend the enforcement of the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulations, 2023 (L.I.2462), with immediate effect", a statement issued by the Director of Communications at the Presidency, Eugene Arhin, said.

It continued; "In a bid to enhance legal action against illegal mining activities, four (4) dedicated courts have already been established. The President has further directed the Attorney General to work with the Chief Justice to increase the number of courts handling cases related to illegal
mining."

Read full statement below: