NDC's Mac-Billions Bansah Hails Government's Move to Protect Forest Reserves

In a significant development, the government has tabled the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Revocation Instrument, 2025, which seeks to revoke the legal basis for mining in forest reserves. The National Democratic Congress' (NDC) Deputy Communications Officer for Ho Central Constituency, Mac-Billions Bansah, has welcomed this move, emphasizing that Ghana's forests are a public heritage and must be protected from exploitation for short-term gains.

According to Mac-Billions Bansah, this initiative is a step in the right direction, but it is only the first step towards achieving a more sustainable and environmentally conscious approach to natural resource management. "Legislation is only the first step. We must ensure swift passage, rigorous enforcement, and safeguards for lawful small-scale miners whose livelihoods depend on a clean, functioning environment," he stressed.

In an interview with Tony Mark-Boye, Morning Show Host of GBC Volta Star Radio, Mac-Billions Bansah emphasized the need for transparency, budgetary backing, and community involvement in the implementation of this initiative. "We need to ensure that this initiative protects lives, lands, and future generations. It's imperative that citizens, traditional leaders, and civil society join hands in this fight to build a greener, fairer Ghana," he added.

Community Involvement Key to Success

Mac-Billions Bansah's sentiments were echoed by many residents of the Volta Region, who believe that community involvement is crucial to the success of this initiative.

The NDC's Deputy Communications Officer also highlighted the need for rigorous enforcement of the legislation, once passed, to prevent unscrupulous individuals from exploiting loopholes in the system. "We must ensure that the laws are enforced, and those who flout them are held accountable," he stated.

A Greener, Fairer Ghana Possible

The Volta Region has been plagued by environmental degradation, with many communities suffering the consequences of irresponsible mining practices. However, with the government's move to protect forest reserves, many believe that a new dawn is breaking. "This is an opportunity for us to build a greener, fairer Ghana, where our natural resources are managed in a sustainable and responsible manner," Mac-Billions Bansah said.

As the country embarks on this new journey, it is essential that all stakeholders are involved in the decision-making process. The fight to protect Ghana's forest reserves is a collective responsibility, and one that requires the active participation of citizens, traditional leaders, and civil society.

Call to Action

In conclusion, Mac-Billions Bansah called on all citizens, traditional leaders, and civil society to join hands in this fight to protect Ghana's forest reserves. "Let us work together to build a greener, fairer Ghana, where our natural resources are managed in a way that benefits everyone. We can end the era of unchecked destruction and build a better future for ourselves and future generations," he urged.

Background to the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Revocation Instrument, 2025

The Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Revocation Instrument, 2025, is a legislative instrument that seeks to revoke the legal basis for mining in forest reserves. The instrument, when passed, will prohibit mining activities in forest reserves and provide for the protection and management of these areas.

Implications for the Mining Industry

The implications of this instrument for the mining industry are significant. Mining companies will be required to adhere to stricter environmental regulations, and those operating in forest reserves will be forced to cease operations. This move is expected to have a significant impact on the livelihoods of many Ghanaians who depend on mining for their survival.

Way Forward

The passage of the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Revocation Instrument, 2025, is a significant step towards protecting Ghana's forest reserves. However, it is only the first step. The government must ensure that the instrument is rigorously enforced, and those who flout the law are held accountable. Additionally, the government must work with stakeholders to develop alternative livelihoods for those who will be affected by the ban on mining in forest reserves.

In conclusion, the government's move to protect forest reserves is a welcome development. However, it requires the collective effort of all stakeholders to ensure its success. As Mac-Billions Bansah aptly put it, "We can end the era of unchecked destruction and build a greener, fairer Ghana."