The Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council (RCC), in collaboration with the Minerals Development Fund (MDF), has stepped up enforcement of the "polluter-pays" principle in mining communities across the Ashanti Region.

Under the initiative, entities responsible for land degradation are required to restore affected lands at their own cost, with small-scale miners bearing the expenses of reclamation.

According to the RCC, 33 organisations, including small-scale mining companies and non-governmental organisations, have been licensed to undertake land reclamation activities in various districts across the region.

The programme has recorded progress in the Bosome Freho District, where about 45 acres of degraded land have been reclaimed through the efforts of contracted miners.

During a site inspection led by the Ashanti Regional Deputy Security Coordinator, Alhaji Abdullah Umaru Nje, residents and farmers welcomed the initiative, citing its importance for agriculture, livelihoods and environmental sustainability.

In Nsuaem No. 2, eight acres of land have been fully reclaimed, while restoration work is ongoing on an additional 12 acres.

At Abosoma, contractor Ibrahim Issaka has restored five acres of degraded land, while Dela Mathias has reclaimed 20 acres at Apentu-Adakaburuso.

Contracted miners involved in the project said they are adhering to environmental standards as part of the reclamation process.

At the end of the inspection, Alhaji Abdullah Umaru Nje commended the quality and pace of work and reaffirmed the government's commitment to promoting sustainable mining practices and environmental restoration.