Rita Awatey, the Eastern Regional Minister-Designate, has committed to taking strong measures against illegal mining, known locally as ‘galamsey,’ which has been wreaking havoc on the region’s farmlands and forests, including cocoa farms.

During her appearance before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on January 23, 2025, Awatey expressed deep concern about the environmental and economic consequences of illegal mining, particularly its impact on cocoa production. She emphasized the need for urgent intervention to protect the region’s agricultural assets.

Awatey announced plans for a comprehensive reforestation initiative aimed at restoring degraded forests in the Eastern Region, which will also support farmers in reclaiming their land for sustainable agricultural use.

“The majority of our cocoa-growing areas overlap with mineral-rich zones, and almost all of these lands are being destroyed by illegal mining,” Awatey said. “We will enforce the laws. Lands that have been affected, including farming and reserved forest areas, must remain untouched moving forward.”

She also outlined plans for re-afforestation efforts, focusing on planting more trees to restore forests and ensure that farmers can continue to cultivate cocoa, contributing to both local and national economic development.

Awatey’s pledge reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to combat illegal mining while promoting sustainable agriculture in the Eastern Region and across the country.

Source:TheDotNews