Mahama Vows to Reclaim Galamsey-Damaged Forests in Ghana

Ghana's President Mahama addresses the devastating impact of illegal mining, known as 'galamsey,' on the nation's forests. In a recent address to the Ghana Catholic Bishops Conference, President Mahama stated, "16% of our forest reserves have been destroyed." This alarming statistic highlights the urgent need for environmental restoration. The government plans to reclaim the damaged areas through a carbon credit system, aiming to generate funds for rehabilitation. A government official added, "We are intending to do that under the carbon credit system because if you reclaim mined lands and restore forests, you can claim it under carbon credits." This initiative underscores the government's commitment to addressing illegal mining and environmental sustainability. The scale of the damage, estimated at 4726 hectares, is a significant concern, but the proposed carbon credit system offers a potential pathway towards a more sustainable future for Ghana's forests.