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The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has placed a ban on mining activities in and around water bodies in Ghana.
This follows the growing concerns over degradation caused by illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, which threatens the environment and poses health risks to humans and other living organisms.
The EPA, in a statement signed by the Acting Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Nana Ama Browne Klutse, said, “All mining activities must strictly comply with Ghana’s environmental laws, including obtaining the necessary permits and implementing sustainable mining practices that minimise environmental impacts.”
“In accordance with Sections 2 and 3b(ii) of the Environmental Protection Act, 2025 (Act 1124), the EPA hereby issues this urgent directive to all individuals and entities involved in illegal mining (galamsey) and other unauthorised operations in water bodies, both small-scale and large-scale, and are instructed to cease all activities with immediate effect.”
To ensure compliance with this directive, the EPA, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Science, and Technology (MEST), the Minerals Commission, the Water Resources Commission, and security agencies, will seize equipment used in illegal mining operations, intensify surveillance and inspections of mining sites, and prosecute individuals and organisations violating environmental laws.
The Authority further encouraged the public to report illegal mining activities via the EPA hotline 0506699466 / 0506694760.
Prof. Klutse reiterated the EPA’s commitment to safeguarding Ghana’s environment for current and future generations, urging all citizens and stakeholders to support the fight against illegal mining.
“Together, we can protect our water bodies and secure a healthier and more prosperous future for all Ghanaians,” the statement added.
Find the full statement below.