Ghana’s Forests Under Siege: Armed Miners Hold Five Reserves Hostage
The Ghana Institute of Foresters (GIF) has sounded the alarm on the devastating impact of illegal mining on the country’s forest reserves. At its 28th Annual General Meeting, GIF revealed that 50 protected reserves, including 49 forest reserves and the Bui National Park, have been affected by mining activities.
The Alarming Statistics:
Forest Degradation: Spatial analysis shows a decline in closed forests from 1,450,873 hectares to 1,020,422 hectares between 2015 and 2024, while open forests increased from 4,352,697 hectares to 5,370,518 hectares.
Armed Miners: Five forest reserves remain under the control of armed miners, including Apamprama, Offin Shelterbelt, Oda River, Tano Anwia, and Tano Nimri.
Prosecution: Only 35 out of 1,190 illegal miners arrested between 2023 and October 2025 have been successfully prosecuted.
The Human Cost:
Foresters have paid a heavy price in the fight against illegal mining, with some losing their lives or suffering severe injuries. GIF has commended the bravery of these unsung heroes, who continue to risk their lives to protect Ghana’s forests.
Government Efforts:
The government has taken steps to address the issue, including revoking 300 small-scale mining licenses and laying a new Legislative Instrument before Parliament to revoke L.I. 2462 and L.I. 2501.
Recommendations:
Resume Burning Excavators: Reinstate destruction of mining equipment to deter illegal miners.
New Legislation: Enact laws permitting restricted mining in production forests, excluding water sources and unique biodiversity areas.
Forest Restoration: Expand efforts to restore degraded forests.
Public Education: Intensify awareness on galamsey’s devastating impacts.
GIF has called for sustainable mining practices and urged Ghanaians to join the fight against illegal mining. As Dr. Abukari Nantogmah Attah, GIF National President, said, “Let us not normalize the abnormal. Nothing can justify destruction of our forests and water bodies”.
