Accra: Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Minister-designate for Lands and Natural Resources, has committed to diligently working towards restoring biodiversity and ensuring sustainable practices in mining and forest resource management, contingent upon his approval. He expressed these intentions during his appearance before the Appointments Committee of Parliament in Accra.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Buah assured that he would enforce measures to halt destructive activities in the mining sector, aiming to rehabilitate polluted water bodies, plant trees, and revitalize biodiversity and ecology. He highlighted key government interventions such as the Blue Water, Tree for Life, and Restore Ghana initiatives, which are designed to manage forest resources and rehabilitate degraded ecological areas.
When queried about tackling illegal small-scale mining, Mr Buah emphasized the critical nature of addressing this issue for the country's survival. He committed to targeting powerful entities and individuals operating in secrecy behind these activities. He acknowledged the significant challenge illegal mining poses and advocated for a bi-partisan approach to address it. He reiterated the NDC government's pledge to conduct a comprehensive review of the mining licensing regime.
In response to concerns about frequent clashes between large-scale mining companies and host communities, Mr Buah promised to foster trust and understanding among stakeholders to ensure mutual respect and equitable outcomes. He also outlined plans to safeguard water bodies by training water guards, highlighting the importance of combating water pollution as a means of protecting the nation's core interests. He asserted the government's stance against mining activities in water bodies and pledged collaborative efforts to combat such practices.
