Accra, Ghana – Stakeholders from Ghana’s environmental and natural resource sectors have gathered in Accra for the Ghana National Landscape Forum, a three-day event aimed at addressing critical challenges such as deforestation, land degradation, and illegal mining.
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Sustainability
Speaking at the Marriott Hotel, Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Sulemana Yusif, MP, reiterated the government’s commitment to sustainable resource management. Representing Minister Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah, he emphasized the urgency of protecting Ghana’s forests, water bodies, and ecosystems from mounting environmental threats.
“The theme of this forum—‘Natural Resources Management and Forest Economy for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth’—is more relevant than ever,” Hon. Yusif stated. “Deforestation, pollution, and climate change are not just environmental concerns; they threaten livelihoods, food security, and public health.”
The Growing Threat to Ghana’s Natural Resources
Hon. Yusif underscored the severe impact of illegal small-scale mining (galamsey), highlighting the destruction of forests and the contamination of vital water sources.
“The devastation is not just environmental—it is an economic and social crisis that demands immediate action,” he warned.
A Comprehensive Five-Pronged Strategy
To address these challenges, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has implemented a five-pronged strategy:
1. Reforming small-scale mining licensing – Decentralizing the process to enhance transparency.
2. Strengthening law enforcement – In collaboration with the military, the government has reclaimed seven of nine forest reserves from illegal miners. Between February and March 2025, authorities confiscated over 100 excavators and arrested more than 70 offenders.
3. Enhancing stakeholder engagement – Engaging communities, traditional leaders, and civil society to foster collective ownership of environmental protection efforts.
4. Providing alternative livelihoods – Creating economic opportunities beyond mining to support affected communities.
5. Reclaiming and reforesting degraded lands – Restoring the environment through large-scale afforestation projects.
New Initiatives for Environmental Protection
As part of President John Dramani Mahama’s 120-day social contract, the government has also introduced two key initiatives:
The Blue Water Initiative – A partnership with the Ghana Navy to train 2,000 community vanguards to protect the country’s water bodies, with the first 400 recruits currently undergoing training.
The Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative – Launched in Nkawie on March 21, 2025, this program aims to restore degraded landscapes, particularly former mining sites, complementing existing afforestation efforts.
Call for Stronger Collaboration
Hon. Yusif emphasized that while progress has been made, broader collaboration with stakeholders, including development partners like the World Bank, will be essential for long-term sustainability.
“I urge all participants to engage fully, share innovative solutions, and generate bold recommendations that will amplify our collective impact on Ghana’s natural resources,” he concluded.
The National Landscape Forum continues until April 4, 2025, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, civil society organizations, and private sector representatives to develop actionable strategies for sustainable resource management in Ghana.
Story by Sheila Otuo Baffour