The Government of Ghana has officially revoked Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2462, effectively banning all forms of mining within the country’s forest reserves. The decision is part of a broader strategy to protect Ghana’s natural forests and curb environmental degradation caused by illegal and unregulated mining activities.
Announcing the move, officials emphasized that the revocation seeks to strengthen conservation efforts, safeguard biodiversity, and prevent further destruction of critical ecosystems. The ban applies to both small-scale and large-scale mining operations and reinforces existing environmental laws governing forest reserves.
Authorities have stated that any mining activities discovered within forest reserves will be treated as illegal and prosecuted under the Forests and Wildlife Policy and other relevant environmental legislation. Enforcement agencies, including the Ghana Forestry Commission and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), have been directed to intensify monitoring and patrols to ensure compliance.
The government’s decision follows growing concerns over the detrimental impact of mining on water bodies, wildlife habitats, and farmlands within protected forest areas. Officials have also highlighted the importance of promoting sustainable development practices that balance economic growth with environmental preservation.
Environmental advocates have welcomed the move, describing it as a critical step toward addressing the long-standing challenge of deforestation and illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, which continues to threaten Ghana’s forests and water resources.
The revocation of L.I. 2462 signals a renewed commitment by the government to uphold environmental protection, ensure sustainable resource management, and hold offenders accountable to safeguard the nation’s ecological heritage for future generations.
