The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah (MP), has reiterated the government’s commitment to building strong partnerships with relevant stakeholders to ensure the responsible and transparent management of Ghana’s natural resources.

He gave this assurance when a delegation from the Natural Resource Governance Institute (NRGI), led by its President and Chief Executive Officer, Madam Suneeta Kaimal, paid a courtesy call on him on Monday, 26th August 2025. The delegation included the Africa Director, Madam Nafi Chico Quashie and other officials.

Hon. Buah explained that while the government welcomes investment in the sector, the greatest challenge is ensuring that such activities are conducted responsibly. He noted that transparency and collaboration with key institutions are central to the Ministry’s reform agenda.

“We are working closely with the Minerals Commission, the Ghana Geological Survey Authority, and other agencies to build their capacity. This will help us identify mineralized areas and direct properly trained miners there, away from water bodies and forests. That is how we can promote responsible mining,” the Minister stated.

He also highlighted ongoing work with the Forestry Commission under the government’s flagship “Tree for Life” initiative, which seeks to rehabilitate 5,500 hectares of degraded forest. “It is not an easy task, but we are determined to restore these areas and make them green again,” he added.

Regarding water resources, Hon. Buah disclosed that the Ministry had completed several water management interventions and recently launched the Blue Water Guards initiative. The program aims to recruit 2,000 people this year to help protect river bodies. “They are doing excellent work. The key now is how to sustain and empower them to continue championing clean water across the country,” he said.

Addressing the lithium and bauxite agreements, the Minister revealed that the government is currently reviewing the contracts to ensure they align with national interests.

The President and Chief Executive Officer of NRGI, Madam Suneeta Kaimal, commended the Minister for his leadership and pledged the institute’s support to strengthen reforms and promote the responsible governance of Ghana’s natural resources.

She added that the institute’s mission is predicated on the fact that decisions about how natural resources are governed critically determine the well-being of people in resource-rich countries and the health of the planet.

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