Lawyer Martin Kwaku Ayisi
Lawyer Martin Kweku Ayisi, CEO of the Minerals Commission, has explained that the mining practice within Ghana’s forest reserves is not unlawful, clarifying that it is not only compatible with environmental conservation but also crucial for the nation’s economic development.
In a revealing interview on Time With Minerals Commission CEO on Asempa FM’s ‘Ekosii Sen,’ Ayisi countered claims that mining in these protected areas is illegal, asserting that existing laws do not impose a blanket ban on such activities.
Ayisi likened the legal framework surrounding mining in forest reserves to Ghana’s abortion laws, which, while generally prohibitive, allow for exceptions under specific circumstances. He suggested that similarly, mining should be permissible within regulated and controlled parameters rather than being entirely outlawed.
The mining god underscored that mining in forest reserves is not a recent development, pointing to longstanding operations such as the Awaso Bauxite mine, which has been active since 1940. He also cited reputable companies like Newmont and Chreano Mines, which are currently conducting legal mining operations within these areas.
Central to Ayisi’s argument is the rigorous regulatory framework that governs mining activities, including strict environmental safeguards. He highlighted reforestation initiatives that require companies to plant three times the number of trees for every kilometer of forest mined, emphasizing that such measures are designed to mitigate environmental impacts while allowing the country to capitalize on its abundant mineral resources.
Ayisi also provided detailed insights into the classification of Ghana’s 288 forest reserves, as outlined by the Forestry Commission. These reserves include 21 Wildlife Protected Areas, 7 National Parks, 6 Resource Reserves, and various other protected zones, each governed by specific regulations. He made it clear that mining is absolutely prohibited in the Wildlife Protected Areas and will remain so, reinforcing the government’s commitment to protecting these critical habitats.
While acknowledging that illegal mining has unfortunately occurred in 38 of the reserves, Ayisi refrained from specifying which ones, stressing the need for stronger enforcement and monitoring to curb such activities.
Lawyer Martin Kweku Ayisi’s robust defense of mining in forest reserves reflects a nuanced approach to balancing economic growth with environmental conservation. His position challenges traditional views, proposing that with the right regulations and responsible practices, mining can coexist with efforts to preserve Ghana’s natural heritage.
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