JUST IN: 73 Illegal Miners Arrested as Upper East Regional Minister leads Crackdown
Upper East Regional Minister, Hon. Akamugri Donatus Atanga, spearheaded a joint security operation targeting illegal mining activities in the Tilli Forest Reserve. Apexnewsgh reports The operation, which took place on February 4, 2025, resulted in 73 arrests, including infants, and the seizure of mining equipment. The raid was prompted by a complaint from Naba Sigri Bewong, chief of Sakoti in the Nabdam District, who reported foreign miners invading the reserve. Hon. Akamugri explained that the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) meeting was convened to verify the paramount chief’s claims. “We have seen that there is some mining in the river itself. Some people are actively doing mining in the river,” he said. The operation, conducted by a team of police, military, and immigration officers, uncovered a significant amount of mining equipment, including air compressors, drilling machines, motorbikes, and gold-processing equipment. Among those detained were 27 Togolese, two Burkinabes, and 41 Ghanaians. Hon. Akamugri emphasized that forest reserves are not meant for economic activities, and illegal mining is unacceptable. “Forest reserves are not places for anyone to trade any economic activity except for the purpose for which they were reserved. So illegal mining is unacceptable. Any mining is not accepted,” he stated. The Red Volta River, which connects to the White Volta, has suffered significant environmental damage due to the illegal mining operations. The regional minister’s efforts aim to protect Ghana’s natural resources and preserve the environment for future generations. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana Boosts Recycling Efforts with Expanded Assistance for SMEs
Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, has announced plans to expand assistance and grants for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in recycling. Apexnewsgh reports This move aims to support entities with expertise in managing plastics and create jobs, particularly for women. During a visit to several SMEs under the ‘Establishing a Circular Economy Framework for the Plastic Sector in Ghana’ (CEF-PS) project, Dr. Muhammed emphasized the need for effective plastic waste management. He noted that about 60% of Ghana’s plastic waste comes from Greater Accra, but only 10% is processed, leaving a significant 90% unaccounted for. To address this challenge, the Minister plans to provide financial support to SMEs engaged in recycling, while also ensuring that the funds are utilized efficiently. “We will not only approve the money for them, but I would also ensure that we supervise and monitor their operations,” he stated. Dr. Muhammed highlighted the importance of job creation, especially for women, who make up the majority of Ghana’s population. “We need to have some affirmative policy decisions to correct some of the injustices,” he noted, emphasizing that while men will also be considered, women will be the priority. The SMEs visited by the Minister include Nel Plastics, Universal Plastic Products and Recycling Company, and Integrated Recycling and Compost Plants Ltd., among others. This initiative is a significant step towards promoting a circular economy and reducing plastic waste in Ghana. Source: Apexnewsgh.com