Ghana's President Declares Victory Against Illegal Miners: 300 Excavators Seized

Ghana Cracks Down on Illegal Mining: 300 Excavators Seized, Forest Reserves Reclaimed Ghana's President John Mahama announced a significant victory in the fight against illegal small-scale mining, known as "galamsey." Speaking at this year's World Environment Day, President Mahama stated, “As I speak they have seized 300 excavators from illegal miners, 5 forest reserves were no go areas because the illegal miners were armed, working together with the minister and the police we are liberating the rest of the No go areas.” The operation involved a joint effort by the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, and Ghana’s security forces. Five forest reserves, previously controlled by heavily armed illegal miners, have been successfully cleared. The government plans to continue operations to liberate the remaining 44 out of 288 forest reserves affected by galamsey. This crackdown is crucial for protecting Ghana's environment and water resources, as President Mahama emphasized the interconnectedness of forests and rivers. The success of the operation offers hope for the future of Ghana's natural resources and the well-being of its people.