In a decisive step toward strengthening environmental protection, the Government of Ghana has laid before Parliament the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Revocation Instrument, 2025, aimed at repealing legislation that previously allowed mining in forest reserves.
The instrument, tabled by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and acting Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, seeks to revoke Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2501 and L.I. 2462, both of which provided the legal framework for regulated mining in forest reserves.
The move comes amid heightened public concern over environmental degradation caused by illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as galamsey.
Hon. Buah explained that the decision followed months of expert consultation and public advocacy, reflecting the government’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable resource management.
“In the light of continued public outcry, as a listening government, and after a complete consultation review of experts, it was very clear that we could completely revoke that L.I. and revert to the guidelines that were enacted in 2020.”
Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and acting Minister for Environment, Science and Technology
The Minister recalled that L.I. 2462, which was enacted in 2022, had sought to ensure that environmental management principles were legally enforceable in mining operations conducted within forest reserves.
However, the regulation became highly controversial following allegations that it inadvertently opened the door for large-scale mining in protected areas.
“It was obviously a public outcry that led to an amendment of that L.I. by deleting Regulation 32, to effectively limit the powers of the President to allow mining in forest reserves.
“That led to the new L.I. 2501, which entered into force on June 2, 2025. And so, that’s effectively what I have done, revoking that law to reaffirm our commitment to protecting Ghana’s forest reserves and environment.”
Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and acting Minister for Environment, Science and Technology
The revocation instrument, once passed by Parliament and allowed to mature after 21 sitting days, will completely nullify previous provisions that gave the President or the Minister discretionary power to permit mining in forest reserves.
Hon. Buah stressed that the action underscores the Mahama administration’s commitment to responsible governance, environmental protection, and sustainable development. “We are keeping our word,” he said.
“We are showing that we are guardians committed to protecting the environment, our forests, and our water bodies.
“Every step we are taking is clearly in line with what President Mahama has been preaching, responsible resource management that serves both people and planet.”
Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and acting Minister for Environment, Science and Technology
Renewed Front Against Illegal Mining
The Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology said the repeal forms part of a broader national strategy to combat illegal mining.
This comprehensive approach includes the implementation of the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) and the operational work of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS).
According to the Ministry, the revocation of the L.I. marks a new phase in the national crusade against galamsey, one that combines strong legal deterrents with inclusive development initiatives to promote responsible small-scale mining.
Environmental experts and civil society organisations have long argued that L.I. 2462 undermined forest protection by providing a legal loophole for mining in ecologically sensitive zones.
Many activists contended that the law’s provisions granted excessive power to political authorities to approve mining activities in forest reserves without adequate environmental safeguards.
Over the past decade, Ghana has lost significant portions of its primary forests due to mining-related deforestation. Conservationists have warned that the destruction of watersheds, including the Pra, Offin, and Ankobra rivers, poses a major threat to water security and biodiversity.
By revoking L.I. 2462 and its subsequent amendment, the government aims to close legal gaps that previously allowed commercial mining ventures to encroach on forest reserves under the guise of regulatory compliance.
Reasserting Ghana’s Global Commitments
The Minister reiterated that Ghana remains committed to its global environmental obligations, including the Paris Agreement on Climate Change and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 15 on life on land and forest conservation.
The new legal shift will likely enhance Ghana’s reputation as a responsible mining jurisdiction while reassuring international development partners that environmental governance remains a top priority.
As Parliament begins deliberations on the Revocation Instrument, stakeholders are optimistic that the move will mark a turning point in the country’s long battle against environmental degradation and illegal mining.
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