The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable natural resource management as it spearheads the National Landscape Forum in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, and the World Bank.
The three-day forum, themed “Natural Resources Management and Forest Economy for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth,” brings together key stakeholders to tackle pressing environmental issues affecting Ghana.
Speaking at the opening ceremony on behalf of the Minister, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Sulemana Yusif underscored the government’s determination to combat deforestation, land degradation, and illegal small-scale mining, popularly known as galamsey.
“Ghana’s forests, minerals, and water bodies are under siege. Illegal mining has reached crisis levels, stripping our land of biodiversity, poisoning our rivers, and endangering public health.”
Hon. Sulemana Yusif, Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
He emphasized that the forum’s theme is timely as environmental degradation, pollution, and climate change threaten not only Ghana’s ecosystems but also the livelihoods of its citizens.
Hon. Yusif outlined a five-pronged strategy aimed at addressing these issues: reforming the small-scale mining licensing regime for transparency, strengthening law enforcement, collaborating with communities and civil society, providing alternative livelihoods, and reclaiming degraded lands.
The Deputy Minister also highlighted two major initiatives under the government’s 120-day social contract: “The Blue Water Initiative” and “The Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative.”
The Blue Water Initiative involves a partnership with the Ghana Navy to train 2,000 community vanguards to protect water bodies, with 400 recruits currently undergoing training.
Also, the Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative is a nationwide afforestation program launched on March 21 to restore mined-out and degraded landscapes.
Hon. Yusif expressed gratitude to the World Bank and other development partners for their continuous support, calling on forum participants to generate actionable solutions.
“As we deliberate over the next three days, let us leave with a renewed commitment to safeguarding Ghana’s natural heritage.”
Hon. Sulemana Yusif, Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
Aligning Ghana’s Efforts with Global Biodiversity Goals
Representing the Ministry of Environment, Science, and Technology, Chief Director Patrick Nimoh reaffirmed Ghana’s dedication to fulfilling its obligations under the Global Biodiversity Framework.
“By aligning our national efforts with this global agenda, we reaffirm our commitment to protecting nature while fostering economic growth.”
Chief Director Patrick Nimoh, Ministry of Environment, Science, and Technology
Mr. Nimoh expressed hope that the forum’s discussions would shape policies to ensure a sustainable future for Ghana’s landscape.
The National Landscape Forum has convened government officials, development partners, civil society organizations, and private sector representatives to devise practical strategies for sustainable environmental management.
Delivering the keynote address, Deputy Chief Executive for General Services at the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), Dr. Jacob Anankware, emphasized the critical role of Natural Capital Accounting (NCA) in managing Ghana’s natural resources effectively.
“Our economy is largely dependent on natural capital, which supports the livelihoods of more than 50% of our population. To manage it effectively, we need quality, reliable, and timely data.”
Dr. Jacob Anankware, Deputy Chief Executive for General Services at the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA)
Dr. Anankware stressed that NCA would provide scientific and policy-relevant insights to integrate ecosystem services and natural assets into decision-making at national, sector, and district levels.
The National Landscape Forum is expected to yield actionable strategies for sustainable environmental management, reinforcing Ghana’s fight against illegal mining, deforestation, and climate change.
Stakeholders, including policymakers, environmental experts, and development partners, will work together to develop policy recommendations and interventions that align with both national and global environmental objectives.
The discussions are set to shape policies that will determine the future of Ghana’s natural landscape, ensuring environmental sustainability and economic resilience.
The forum’s conclusion will mark a step forward in Ghana’s journey toward a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future, driven by collaboration between government agencies, civil society, and international partners.
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