- Ghana’s President Mahama reaffirms commitment to ban mining in forest reserves.
- Ghana’s government to revoke previous mining leases and enforce stricter regulations on illegal mining.
- EU justice ministers remain divided on expanding the European Public Prosecutor’s Office powers to prosecute sanctions evaders.
President John Dramani Mahama of Ghana has reiterated his government’s position on banning mining in all forest reserves. The government is set to revoke all mining leases granted by the previous administration and clamp down on illegal mining activities.
Meanwhile, in the EU, there is an ongoing debate on whether the European Public Prosecutor‘s Office (EPPO) should be given more authority to prosecute those evading sanctions on Russia.
Ghana Bans Mining in Forest Reserves Amidst Environmental Concerns and EU’s Sanctions Debate
President John Dramani Mahama has taken a firm stance on protecting Ghana’s forest reserves by prohibiting mining activities. The government aims to halt the issuance of mining leases within these reserves and will revoke previously granted ones. This move comes as part of a broader effort to preserve the environment and tackle illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey.
Mahama’s government is also committed to preventing any member of the administration from engaging in small-scale mining or galamsey, with swift penalties promised for any violations. A national consultation will be held to develop a unified approach to tackle illegal mining’s environmental damage.
Meanwhile, the European Union is still divided over the proposal to expand the powers of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO). The discussion centers on whether the EPPO should have the authority to go after individuals or entities evading sanctions imposed on Russia. While countries like Poland strongly advocate for the expansion of the office’s mandate, other member states remain cautious.
The disagreement highlights the complexities within the EU in reaching unanimous agreements. The debate, ongoing for over two years, has yet to reach a resolution, but there are signs that it will continue to be a key topic at future ministerial meetings. The next major discussion will take place in March 2025.
Both the fight against illegal mining in Ghana and the debate on expanding the powers of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office reflect the significant environmental and geopolitical challenges facing these regions. Ongoing discussions highlight the importance of addressing both environmental preservation and international accountability.
“We shall also move promptly to revoke all leases issued for the same purpose under the previous government.” – President John Dramani Mahama
