A Rocha Ghana, a leading environmental organization, has clarified its stance on mining activities, emphasizing that it does not advocate for a blanket ban on mining but calls for a cessation of all mining operations within forest reserves and river bodies.
Daryl Bosu, Deputy National Director of A Rocha Ghana, stated, “What we are saying is that whether it is legal or illegal mining, we should not allow it to happen in our forest reserves. We should not allow it to happen in our rivers.”
On September 25, 2024, during an interview on ABC IN THE MORNING, Bosu discussed the organization’s recent lawsuit concerning L.I. 2462, enacted in November 2022, which they argue is unjust. He explained, “Forest reserves are set aside for the purpose of managing forests, and they should not be tormented.”
In observance of World Rivers Day, A Rocha Ghana organized a street protest to engage the public and highlight the importance of protecting water resources.
Bosu noted that the event to redirect public attention to environmental concerns, stating, “People’s minds were swayed away from all that was happening. So deliberately, we came out to get people to appreciate water resources and why we need to care for them.”
Bosu also addressed comments from the Chairperson of the National House of Chiefs regarding the non-ascension to a blanket ban on mining in Ghana.
He emphasized that their position is not against all mining activities but specifically targets mining in forest reserves and rivers to safeguard these vulnerable ecosystems.