The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, responsible for Lands and Forestry, Mr. Benito Owusu-Bio has touted government’s efforts in curbing illegal mining activities in Ghana’s forest reserves.
Speaking on the State of Forests in Ghana, on Peace FM’s Morning Show Kokrokoo, Mr. Benito noted that out of the 34 forest reserves, only three reserves have the illegality in the reserves.
He mentioned the Apamprama, Oda River and Subin Shelterbelt Forest Reserves as some of the most impacted Reserves by activities of illegal miners and loggers.
He further indicated that the penalty for illegal mining has been increased to 15 years imprisonment which should serve as a deterrent to offenders.
Mr. Owusu-Bio explained that the Green Ghana Project is helping to restore the vegetation cover of Ghana and largely improve climate change globally.
He added that tree seedlings will be planted on reclaimed lands while calling on all stakeholders, including traditional authorities to support the Ministry to protect the country’s Forest Reserves.
