Ghana’s fight against illegal mining has received renewed momentum following a strong call to action by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and Acting Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah (MP), at the Chief Justice’s Mentorship Programme.

Addressing an audience made up of judges, lawyers, and law students, the Minister underscored the government’s unwavering resolve to confront illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, which continues to pose a serious threat to the country’s environment and public health.

In a passionate address, Mr Armah-Kofi Buah painted a stark picture of Ghana’s once-pristine natural heritage — lush forests, fertile farmlands, and clear blue rivers — now degraded by illegal mining activities.

He described the destruction as “gaping, bleeding holes in the earth,” warning that the practice has stripped communities of their health, dignity, and the future of their children.

The Minister stressed that illegal mining is not merely an environmental issue but a national security and intergenerational justice concern.

He called on the Judiciary and legal practitioners to play a critical role in enforcing the law, ensuring swift prosecution of offenders, and upholding environmental justice.

He further urged young law students and mentees to see the fight against illegal mining as a moral and professional duty, encouraging them to use the law as a tool to protect Ghana’s natural resources for future generations.

The address formed part of broader efforts by the Minister to strengthen inter-institutional collaboration in tackling illegal mining through legal enforcement, public education, and sustainable livelihood alternatives for affected communities.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying the fight against illegal mining, stressing that protecting Ghana’s environment is essential to safeguarding public health, economic sustainability, and national development.