Forestry Commission has decommissioned mining activities in portions of the forest by burning four excavators at Obuohu Fante in the Ayensuano districts of the Eastern Region. Apexnewsgh reports The commission believes that miners, who initially operated on the fringes of the forest, have gradually expanded their operations into the protected area. Environmental NGO, A Rocha Ghana, has thrown its weight behind the Forestry Commission’s actions. Team Lead Daryl Bosu took to Facebook to justify the commission’s move, stating that illegal miners often start on the outskirts of forests and then expand their operations, emboldened by impunity. Bosu applauded the Forestry Commission’s zero-tolerance approach to illegal mining, reaffirming A Rocha Ghana’s commitment to supporting their efforts. However, the burning of the excavators has sparked tension in Obuohu Fante, with local residents suspecting forestry officials and demanding answers. The incident highlights the complex and often contentious issue of illegal mining in Ghana’s protected areas. The Atewa Forest is a vital ecosystem that provides water, climate regulation, and community well-being. The Forestry Commission’s actions aim to safeguard the forest’s integrity, but it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold in Obuohu Fante. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), has issued a stern warning to individuals and entities engaging in illegal mining activities within and around Ghana’s water bodies. Apexnewsgh reports In an exclusive interview, Prof. Klutse emphasized that mining around water bodies is strictly prohibited and that her outfit will arrest and prosecute anyone found violating this law. The EPA’s concerns stem from the alarming increase in mining activities within and around water bodies across the country, which poses significant risks to the environment, public health, and Ghana’s natural resources. Prof. Klutse stressed that all mining activities must comply with Ghana’s environmental laws, including obtaining necessary permits and implementing sustainable mining practices. In a bid to enforce this directive, the EPA is collaborating with relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Environment, Science, and Technology, the Minerals Commission, the Water Resources Commission, and security agencies. Measures to be implemented include seizing equipment used in illegal mining operations, increasing surveillance and conducting regular site inspections, and prosecuting individuals and organizations found violating environmental laws. Prof. Klutse reassured the public that no one is above the law, regardless of their social status or political affiliation. She urged all Ghanaians and the media to report any illegal mining activities to the authorities or call the EPA’s hotlines at 0506699466/0506694760. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, the Defence Minister-designate, has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring regional balance in recruitment into the Ghana Armed Forces. Apexnewsgh reports During his vetting by the Appointment Committee on Tuesday, January 28, Dr. Omane Boamah emphasized the importance of equity and representation in the military. As a strong advocate for equity, Dr. Omane Boamah believes that the military should reflect the diversity of Ghana. He pledged to ensure that all regions are adequately represented in the Ghana Armed Forces, stating, “I will do everything in my power to ensure that no region is left behind in the recruitment process.” Dr. Omane Boamah highlighted the significance of creating an army that not only possesses the necessary skills but also represents the diverse communities it serves. He noted that balanced recruitment across regions would foster unity, cohesion, and national integration, making every part of the country feel invested in national security. With his commitment to regional balance and equity, Dr. Omane Boamah aims to strengthen the Ghana Armed Forces and promote a sense of inclusivity and national unity. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

The National Concerned Association of Small-Scale Miners (NCASSM) has sounded the alarm on the alleged mismanagement of over $200 million allocated to combat illegal mining (galamsey) in Ghana between 2017 and 2024. Apexnewsgh reports In a press statement, NCASSM President Michael Kwadwo Peprah raised concerns about the misuse of funds and equipment acquired under the anti-galamsey campaign. Specifically, the association highlighted several instances of questionable spending, including: a. Missing Drones: Over $2 million was spent on drones for surveillance, but many are reportedly missing. b. Failed GalamStop Application: Approximately $1 million was invested in developing a technology platform to streamline licensing and monitoring of small-scale mining, but it failed to deliver. c. Ineffective GPS Tracking Devices: Resources were allocated for GPS tracking devices to monitor excavators, but their effectiveness remains questionable. d. Drone Pilot Training: Taxpayer money was spent on training drone pilots, yet the initiative has not had a significant impact on illegal mining activities. Furthermore, NCASSM alleged that some confiscated mining equipment, including excavators, were misappropriated, sold, or destroyed without proper accountability. To address these issues, NCASSM has called for: 1. Independent Investigation: Establish a neutral committee to audit the $200 million allocated for the campaign. 2. Audit of Confiscated Equipment: Investigate reports of mismanagement of seized mining equipment. 3. Accountability for Failed Projects: Provide a full report on failed initiatives and determine who benefited from them. 4. Prosecution of Offenders: Prosecute individuals or groups found to have misused public funds or diverted resources. The association emphasized that the fight against galamsey will only succeed if public resources are used transparently and effectively. They urged the government to work with stakeholders in the small-scale mining industry to develop sustainable solutions and implement rigorous monitoring of anti-galamsey initiatives. Source: Apexnewsgh.com

A tragic incident occurred at the AngloGold Ashanti Mines in Obuasi on Saturday, January 18, 2025, when a group of approximately 60 illegal miners attempted to breach the security fence and access the mine’s Deep Decline area. Apexnewsgh reports The illegal miners, armed with locally manufactured rifles, pump-action guns, knives, axes, gas cylinders, and other tools, opened fire on the military personnel stationed at the mine when confronted. In self-defence, the soldiers returned fire, resulting in the deaths of eight illegal miners and leaving one seriously injured. The remaining individuals fled the scene. The Ghana Armed Forces confirmed the deaths of seven illegal miners. President John Dramani Mahama has directed an immediate investigation into the incident to determine the circumstances surrounding the clashes and ensure that any individuals found to have acted unlawfully are brought to justice. The President expressed profound regret over the tragic loss of lives and extended his condolences to the bereaved families. The government has asked the management of AngloGold Ashanti to bear the medical expenses of the injured individuals fully and to facilitate the burial arrangements for those who have lost their lives. The security agencies have also been tasked to take prompt action to restore peace in the area and implement measures to prevent similar occurrences. Source: Apexnewsgh.com