By Kizito CUDJOE
The Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) Alliance has called on President John Dramani Mahama to issue an urgent directive that immediately halts all illegal mining activities across the country.
The group, during a press conference in Accra, emphasised the need for decisive action to deter those engaging in unlawful mining practices.
This appeal follows a surge in illegal mining operations despite the new administration’s commitment to addressing the issue. Government, then in opposition, pledged to ban mining in forest reserves and implement initiatives such as the ‘Tree for Life’ and ‘Blue Water Initiative’ aimed at rehabilitating degraded areas, which the CSOs have applauded.
However, they recognise that “illegal mining continues unabated, resulting in environmental degradation, destruction of cocoa farms and the pollution of vital water-bodies”.
They have therefore, among others, reiterated calls to repeal the Environmental Protection (Mining in Forest Reserves) Regulation 2022 (L.I. 2462) and “enhance enforcement of existing mining laws”.
Additionally, they entreated that District and Regional Security Councils (DISEC and REGSEC) should be empowered to enforce bans effectively at the local level, while advocating expedited prosecution of illegal miners. This, they said, should be done by getting the Attorney General to work with the Chief Justice on establishing a special court to fast-track illegal mining cases.
“These actions are vital to protect our forests, rivers and farmlands, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come,” they noted.
CSOs working in the extractive and environmental sectors also lauded the addition of ‘Green Transitions’ to the Ministry of Energy’s mandate.
However, they entreated government to extend energy transition beyond one ministry to achieve national impact.
They therefore proposed that government establish a high-level coordinating body akin to Nigeria’s Energy Transition Implementation Working Group or South Africa’s Presidential Climate Commission to drive efforts across sectors; and develop an integrated energy transition strategy by reviewing and aligning the existing Energy Transition Framework and Investment Plan with manifesto commitments.
“Accelerate investments in renewable energy by creating a favourable regulatory and investment environment to enhance the renewable component of the country’s energy mix.
“Link energy transition to green minerals through mapping resources, promoting research and ensuring value addition within the country.”
Ghana, the CSOs asserted, must leverage its natural resources and global energy transition goals to become a leader in sustainable energy.
Also, on the upstream and downstream petroleum sectors, the CSOs urge government to revise and harmonise regulations governing the petroleum sector to ensure consistency and support integration.
“Invest in critical infrastructure and explore partial privatisation options to address financial challenges; prioritise domestic crude oil supply for local refineries as mandated by the Petroleum Agreement; and align the sector with global energy transition goals to ensure long-term sustainability,” they enumerated.
The CSOs commended government’s promise to establish a robust ‘Code of Conduct’ for government officials and institute inquiries into corruption scandals.
They emphasised that actions must back these efforts with tangible results. Therefore, they recommended immediate passage of the Conduct of Public Officers (CoPO) bill, which has been pending since 2013.
Additionally, they suggested strengthening procurement reforms to prevent insider dealings and ensure transparency.
They also called for the engagement of stakeholders to review political party financing laws and reduce undue influence on governance.
Furthermore, they advocated for empowering state institutions to lead forensic audits and investigations into public interest scandals.
“These steps will restore public trust, foster accountability and uphold the principles of good governance,” they stated.
“We believe that fulfilling these commitments will not only ensure the sustainability of Ghana’s resources but also secure a prosperous and equitable future for all.”
They therefore urged government to act decisively and we call on citizens, civil society organisations and the private sector to lend their support in this shared mission.
