The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has paid a working visit to the Overlord of the Gonja Kingdom, Yagbonwura Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale I, at the Jakpa Palace in Damongo, as part of efforts to intensify the fight against illegal mining.
The visit aimed at securing the support of the Gonja overlord in addressing illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, particularly in the Savannah Region and other affected parts of the country.
Mr Buah reaffirmed the government’s commitment, under the leadership of John Dramani Mahama, to promote responsible and cooperative mining among the youth in the region as a sustainable alternative to illegal practices.
He noted that steps are being taken to identify mineral-rich areas suitable for regulated mining, while ensuring the protection of water bodies and the environment.
According to the Minister, the Yagbonwura has expressed strong support for the initiative, which seeks to strike a balance between job creation and environmental preservation.
“We are here, more importantly, to seek his support for the fight against illegal mining and the proposals by President Mahama to introduce responsible cooperative mining for the young people in this area,” he said.
