Government to Declare All Water Bodies, Forest Reserves as Security Zones
Accra, September 24, 2025
The Government of Ghana is set to designate all water bodies and forest reserves across the country as security zones as part of intensified efforts to combat illegal mining.
The announcement was made by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, during a media briefing on Tuesday. He described the move as a decisive step in addressing the widespread destruction caused by galamsey operations.
According to the Minister, the growing levels of environmental degradation have made it necessary for government to adopt stronger and more coordinated interventions.
“Our water bodies and forest reserves are under severe attack. Declaring them as security zones will give the state the authority to deploy the needed security machinery to protect these vital resources,” he said.
The designation will allow security agencies including the military and special environmental task forces to enforce strict controls, restrict unauthorized access, and arrest offenders operating in protected environments.
The Ministry also indicated that the government will complement the new security-zone approach with advanced monitoring technologies and enhanced collaboration with local communities and traditional leaders.
Environmental analysts say the decision could significantly boost the national fight against illegal mining, which continues to pollute rivers, destroy agricultural lands, and threaten Ghana’s biodiversity.
Further details on the operational rollout are expected in the coming days.