Ghana Cracks Down on Illegal Mining: 300 Excavators Seized, Forest Reserves Cleared

Ghanaian President John Mahama announced a significant crackdown on illegal mining, known locally as 'galamsey.' The government's operation has resulted in the seizure of 300 excavators and the clearing of illegal miners from eight forest reserves. This coordinated effort involved the Ministries of Environment, Science and Technology, and Lands and Natural Resources, along with security services. "As I speak, they have seized 300 excavators from illegal miners," President Mahama stated. The president stressed the importance of protecting the country's forest reserves, emphasizing that 44 out of 288 reserves have been affected by illegal mining. The government plans to continue its efforts to restore these vital ecosystems and combat galamsey throughout Ghana's remaining forest reserves. The success of this operation signals a renewed commitment to environmental protection and sustainable resource management in Ghana.