GoldBod launch major land reclamation, reforestation initiative to restore degraded forest reserves

The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has entered into a strategic partnership with the Ghana Armed Forces and the Forestry Commission to begin a nationwide land reclamation and reforestation programme aimed at restoring forest reserves damaged by illegal mining activities.

The first phase of the initiative will focus on rehabilitating 50 hectares of degraded land within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve at an estimated cost of GH¢35 million.

The project underscores GoldBod’s commitment to environmental sustainability, responsible resource management, and the protection of Ghana’s natural ecosystems.

Under the agreement, GoldBod will provide full financial support for the reclamation exercise, which will be implemented in stages across affected areas nationwide.

The programme will commence in Compartment 161 of the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve, a section of forest that has experienced significant environmental degradation as a result of illegal mining operations.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, GoldBod Chief Executive Officer, Sammy Gyamfi, stated that the choice of the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve as the starting point reflects the institution’s resolve to play an active role in reversing the environmental damage caused by illegal mining.

He emphasized that while gold remains a vital economic resource for the country, its extraction must be balanced with the need to safeguard Ghana’s forests, water bodies, and biodiversity.

“We are pleased to announce that preparations have been completed for what will be the first major reclamation project undertaken by GoldBod in the months ahead,” he said.

The project will draw on the engineering expertise of the Ghana Army Engineer Brigade and the ecological restoration experience of the Forestry Commission. Planned activities include land rehabilitation, tree planting, and broader ecosystem restoration efforts intended to return degraded landscapes to healthy and productive ecological conditions.

Deputy Minister for Defence, Hon. Ernest Brogya Genfi, described the initiative as a timely intervention that goes beyond preventing further environmental destruction.

He noted that while efforts to stop illegal mining remain important, equal attention must be given to restoring lands that have already suffered extensive damage.

According to him, the project has the potential to serve as a blueprint for similar restoration programmes across the country.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Forestry Commission, Dr. Hugh C.A. Brown, praised GoldBod for responding swiftly to the Commission’s call for support in reclaiming degraded forest reserves.

He said the restoration of the initial 50 hectares would contribute significantly to improving ecological balance, conserving biodiversity, and protecting critical forest habitats.

GoldBod believes the initiative represents a practical step toward addressing the environmental consequences of illegal mining while supporting national efforts to preserve Ghana’s natural resources.

The programme marks the beginning of a long-term collaborative effort to restore degraded lands across the country and demonstrates that economic growth and environmental protection can be pursued simultaneously.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith