The government says it will designate all forest reserves and water bodies as national security zones in a bid to combat illegal mining, also known locally as galamsey.

Lands and Natural Resources Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah made the announcement in an interview on state television on Wednesday.

He said the move would allow for the deployment of a permanent military presence in protected areas, effectively turning them into no-go zones for illegal miners.

“The President has made it very clear that we are moving all the water bodies and the forest reserves into national security zones,” Mr Buah said. “We are now preparing to deploy permanent military to these areas.”

The government has come under growing pressure from civil society groups, traditional leaders, and the public to take stronger action against illegal mining, which has led to widespread environmental damage and water pollution.

Ghana is one of Africa’s leading gold producers, but unregulated mining has severely affected rivers, forests, and farmlands in several regions.

Authorities hope that designating these areas as security zones will strengthen enforcement and deter illegal operations.

Source: TheDotNews