The Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, has urged mining companies operating in Ghana to comply strictly with environmental laws to prevent pollution, deforestation and land degradation in mining communities.
The minister warned that mineral resource exploitation must not undermine environmental protection or destroy the livelihoods of communities hosting mining operations. She expressed confidence that the expanded mandate of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) would strengthen regulatory enforcement and ensure mining companies meet the required environmental standards.
Dr Agyeman-Rawlings made the remarks during a working visit to Zijin Golden Ridge Limited in Abirem, Eastern Region, on Tuesday. She was accompanied by EPA Chief Executive Officer Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse and other government officials.
Zijin Golden Ridge Commended for Forest Restoration
During the visit, the minister praised Zijin Golden Ridge Limited for its environmental sustainability initiatives, particularly land reclamation, reforestation and forest preservation.
The company’s Environment Manager, Kwame Obeng Dapaah, disclosed that the mining firm was expected to restore 303 hectares of forest reserve under a 10-year rehabilitation project. More than 40 hectares had reportedly been restored so far.
Dr Agyeman-Rawlings stressed that environmental rehabilitation must be an integral part of mining operations, noting that restoring forests and degraded lands requires sustained investment and long-term commitment.
Ghana to Strengthen Environmental Protection and Waste Management
The minister also welcomed the company’s proposed electric vehicle (EV) battery recycling facility, highlighting the growing importance of responsible waste management as electric mobility expands.
She noted that appropriate recycling infrastructure and environmental safeguards would be essential for managing used batteries and reducing pollution associated with emerging technologies.
Meanwhile, the company’s environment manager identified illegal small-scale mining, popularly known as galamsey, as a major threat to Ghana’s environment. He called for stronger government interventions to protect forests, land and human lives.
Minister Inspects Illegal Mining Site at Osino
As part of her Eastern Region tour, Dr Agyeman-Rawlings and her delegation visited an illegal small-scale mining site at Osino. The team reportedly found the site abandoned after the miners fled upon noticing the arrival of the government officials.
The minister expressed concern about the destruction caused by illegal mining and pledged to work with relevant stakeholders to address the problem.
The visit underscores the government’s focus on environmental law enforcement, sustainable mining practices, forest restoration and measures to combat illegal mining in Ghana.
Source: newsthemegh.com