The Government of Ghana has officially revoked Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2462, which permitted mining activities in forest reserves, in what officials say is a strong demonstration of its commitment to environmental protection and the fight against illegal mining.
Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Kofi-Armah Buah, announced the revocation at a media briefing in Accra on Thursday. He said the decision reflects the Mahama administration’s renewed focus on sustainable natural resource management and the preservation of Ghana’s forest ecosystems.
“We have completely revoked that element to ensure our forest reserves remain protected,” the Minister stated.
“This move clearly sends a message that this government is committed to change and to safeguarding our environment.”
The Minister of lands and Natural Resources explained that a new legislative framework, L.I. 25, will guide operations in forestry and specialized landscape mining.
Until the new instrument is fully considered, mining and related activities will be regulated under guidelines reviewed in 2022, originally formulated in 2020.
The now-revoked L.I. 2462 had faced widespread criticism from environmentalists, civil society organizations, and traditional leaders who argued that it opened the door for large-scale destruction of Ghana’s remaining forest reserves.
The Minister emphasized that the revocation marks a significant policy shift aimed at balancing economic development with environmental sustainability.
“This administration will not compromise on the integrity of our forests,” Mr. Buah said. “We are taking bold steps to restore public confidence in our environmental governance.”
Environmental groups have welcomed the announcement, describing it as a “positive and timely decision” in the national effort to combat illegal mining, known locally as galamsey.
Source :www.kumasimail.com
