Walewale MP Criticizes Forest Mining Ban as Inadequate Solution

The Member of Parliament for Walewale, Abdul Kabiru Tiah Mahama, has expressed skepticism about the government’s recent decision to revoke Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2462, arguing it’s an insufficient measure to tackle the widespread issue of illegal mining, commonly known as ‘galamsey’, in Ghana.

According to the lawmaker, illegal mining continues unabated across the country, impacting not only forest reserves but also vital water bodies and communities. This raises serious questions about the effectiveness of the government’s current strategy.

Mr. Tiah Mahama believes that concentrating solely on forest reserves ignores the broader scope of galamsey operations occurring nationwide. He cautioned that simply revoking the L.I. without robust enforcement and consistent action on the ground could lead to a worsening of the situation.

“Illegal mining is not happening in forest reserves alone. It is happening in water bodies, within communities and settlements,” the MP stated emphatically.

He further argued that the President could have achieved the same outcome by simply refusing to grant approvals for mining in forest reserves, rather than revoking the instrument altogether. “Revoking it will not change anything. This is a cosmetic approach, and the fight against illegal mining is slipping out of government’s control,” he added.

The Walewale MP’s comments add to the growing debate surrounding the government’s efforts to curb the illegal mining menace and protect Ghana’s natural resources.

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