The Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council (RCC), in collaboration with the Minerals Development Fund (MDF), has stepped up enforcement of the “polluter-pays” principle in major mining communities across the region as part of efforts to curb land degradation and promote environmental restoration.
Under the initiative, entities responsible for environmental damage from mining activities are required to fully restore degraded lands, with all costs borne by small-scale mining operators and licensed contractors.
Currently, 33 organisations, including small-scale mining companies and Non-Governmental Organisations, have been licensed to undertake land reclamation works across various districts in the Ashanti Region.
The programme has already recorded notable progress, particularly in the Bosome Freho District, where about 45 acres of degraded land have been successfully restored by contracted miners.
A recent inspection tour led by the Regional Deputy Security Coordinator, Alhaji Abdullah Umaru Nje, highlighted ongoing reclamation efforts and gathered feedback from local residents and farmers, who expressed strong support for the initiative.
They noted that land restoration is critical for reviving agriculture, securing livelihoods, and improving environmental conditions.
In the district, eight acres have been fully reclaimed at Nsuaem No. 2, while an additional 12 acres are currently under restoration.
At Abosoma, contractor Ibrahim Issaka has restored five acres, while Dela Mathias has reclaimed 20 acres at Apentu-Adakaburuso.
Contractors involved in the exercise have reaffirmed their commitment to environmental standards and compliance with reclamation guidelines.
Concluding the inspection, Alhaji Abdullah Umaru Nje commended the quality and pace of work, reiterating government’s commitment to promoting sustainable mining practices and ensuring that degraded lands are restored for productive use.
