President John Dramani Mahama has taken a firm stance against mining activities among government officials, emphasizing the need to protect Ghana’s environment.

Speaking at the launch of the Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative in the Atwima Nwabiagya South Municipality, he issued a strict directive prohibiting all government appointees from engaging in any form of mining, whether legal or illegal.

“I have directed that no government appointee at any level should engage in any form of legal or illegal mining.

“If you want to be a miner, leave the government and go and be a miner,” he stated, making it clear that holding public office and participating in mining activities cannot coexist.

The president’s decision comes amid rising concerns over the devastating impact of mining on Ghana’s environment.

He highlighted the destruction of farmlands, pollution of water bodies, and the displacement of communities as urgent issues requiring immediate intervention.

“Farmers are losing their farmlands, rivers are turning brown and toxic with pollution, and entire communities are being affected,” he lamented.

Illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, has been a major environmental challenge in Ghana, leading to widespread deforestation, contaminated water sources, and the loss of agricultural land.

President Mahama’s directive is seen as a bold step toward curbing the practice, ensuring that those in power do not contribute to the worsening crisis.

The Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative is one of several government-backed efforts aimed at restoring degraded lands and promoting environmental sustainability.

By banning government officials from mining, President Mahama hopes to set a precedent for responsible leadership in environmental conservation.

Don’t miss out! Get your daily dose of Entertainment news and more straight to your phone. Join Ghana Street Journal Whatsapp channel now!