Ghana Enforces Total Ban on Mining in Forest Reserves

Ghana has announced a sweeping ban on all mining activities within its forest reserves, reversing previous regulations that allowed limited operations under strict conditions.

The decision comes after years of environmental damage linked to both legal and illegal mining, including deforestation, polluted rivers and degraded farmland. Authorities say the cumulative impact of mining has threatened biodiversity, water security and cocoa farming, a cornerstone of the national economy.

By reinstating full protection for forest reserves, the government aims to preserve critical ecosystems and restore public confidence in environmental governance. Officials say the ban applies to all mining operations, regardless of scale, including artisanal and small-scale miners.

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The policy forms part of a wider strategy to combat illegal mining, known locally as galamsey. Alongside the ban, the government is expanding registration schemes for miners, strengthening enforcement operations, and promoting alternative livelihoods for affected communities.

Environmental groups have welcomed the move, describing it as overdue and necessary. However, they caution that enforcement will be key, noting that previous bans have struggled against weak oversight and political interference.

Government officials insist that lessons have been learned and that stricter monitoring, combined with community involvement, will improve compliance and long-term environmental recovery.

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