Former president and flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to launch a #Atree4Life project in galamsey affected areas across the country.
The project according to Mr. Mahama is aimed at re-afforesting mining areas and creating job opportunities among the youth.
Mr. Mahama announced this plan at the 3rd annual transformative dialogue on small-scale mining in Sunyani.
Emphasizing the project, the former president said it will transform re-afforestation into an economically engaging activity, offering a promising avenue for economic development.
“The youth will oversee the growth of economically viable tree crops, contributing to environmental conservation and economic growth”, he stressed
To make this project successful, he also revealed that, a Blue Water Initiative will be implemented in partnership with the Water Resources Commission, Ghana Water Company, and development partners to clean the impacted water bodies in mining areas.
“This initiative is a crucial step towards sustainable and responsible mining practices. I am confident it will positively change the environment and the local communities. Together, we can make a difference for future generations”, Mahama explained.
Speaking on the theme: Charting our country mining vision and future of illegal mining at Sunyani, Mr. Mahama also laid out various interventions and policies he would adopt to fight illegal mining.
He mentioned that, as a country, we must prioritize sustainable development and responsible mining practices and work together to develop and implement policies that prioritize sustainable mining practices and hold those who engage in illegal mining accountable.
As part of the policies mentioned, the leader of the NDC said he would regulate and strengthen regulatory institutions such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Minerals Commission, Geological Survey Authority and Natural Resource Universities.