Ghana reaffirms forest mining ban, unveils $3.4 billion clean energy plan

The government has banned mining in forest reserves as part of efforts to combat illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

This was disclosed by the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah.

For years, Ghana has battled a surge in poorly regulated small-scale mining, which has destroyed farmlands, forests, and water bodies, while also posing significant health risks.

Speaking at the 7th Session of the UN Environment Assembly in Nairobi, Kenya, on Thursday, December 11, 2025, the Minister said Ghana has designated key forest reserves as red zones where mining is prohibited, and reclamation efforts are underway to restore the land.

Government's ban on new mining leases in forests is the 'Big Ticket' - Kpebu

“Ghana therefore chose the responsible path. The instrument was withdrawn and repealed. Science spoke, the people spoke, leadership responded. We have designated key forest reserves as red zones where mining cannot be permitted,” he stated.

He added that a $3.4 billion clean energy investment plan has been launched to shape a responsible model for critical minerals. The plan, he explained, will expand solar and wind power access for farmers.

“We call for climate finance that is accessible, predictable, and fair. We call for strong technological partnerships that allow developing nations to act at the speed demanded by science. We call for strong global rules on pollution, especially plastics, chemicals, e-waste, and hazardous waste,” he added.

The ban marks a major shift in Ghana’s environmental policy, restoring protections for forests after nearly 90% of reserves had previously been opened to mining.

We’ve marked key forest reserves as red zones where mining is banned, and reclamation efforts are restoring soils, riverbanks, and damaged lands - Armah-Kofi Buah at the 7th Session of the UN Environment Assembly in Nairobi, Kenya.#JoyNews pic.twitter.com/35FmirE1ET

— JoyNews (@JoyNewsOnTV) December 11, 2025