Lands and Natural Resources Minister, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has pledged that by the end of the administration’s first term, Ghanaians will see tangible results in the fight against illegal mining and in the transformation of mining communities.
Speaking on the GTV Breakfast Show on Wednesday, September 24, the Minister said his integrity and commitment will be the yardstick by which he should be judged.
“I want to be remembered as the guy that, thanks to President Mahama, fought his heart out with the support of the people of Ghana to turn our waters blue and to bring turbidity levels back within safe limits so Ghanaians can stop drinking poison,” he said.
Mr. Buah noted that beyond fighting galamsey, the government is also focused on ensuring that Ghana adds more value to its mineral resources while improving the livelihoods of host communities.
He disclosed that mining companies have been directed to deepen local content participation, train young people to take up engineering and leadership roles, and deliver critical infrastructure such as airstrips, better roads, and hospitals.
“Have you heard of a mining hospital in Ghana? I want us to have one. I want every mining community to have better roads and airstrips where you can land. And I want to see mining companies nurture young people into engineers, not just employ drivers,” he emphasized.
According to the Minister, the ultimate goal is to ensure that even when Ghana’s gold and other minerals are depleted, communities will be left with infrastructure, education, and economic opportunities that trace their roots back to mining.
On accountability, Mr. Buah insisted that no one, regardless of political connections, will be shielded from responsibility if found complicit in the destruction of the environment.
Listen to Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah in the attached audio clip below:
Below is the full interview
