Ghana's president has pledged unwavering action against illegal mining operations while launching a land restoration program that will employ thousands of young people from communities affected by environmental damage. During an appearance on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the National Awards ceremony held at Manhyia Palace, President John Dramani Mahama announced plans to expand budget allocations for recruiting youth into forest restoration and water protection initiatives.
The program will provide monthly payments of 1,500 Ghanaian cedis to young workers from mining-affected areas who participate in tree planting and the Blue Water Guard program, designed to protect waterways. Mahama praised journalists who risk personal safety to expose environmental violations, calling their work patriotic and assuring them of his continued commitment to the fight.
The employment initiative forms part of a comprehensive government approach to address both environmental harm and social consequences stemming from illicit mining while fostering sustainable economic opportunities in damaged regions.
The program will provide monthly payments of 1,500 Ghanaian cedis to young workers from mining-affected areas who participate in tree planting and the Blue Water Guard program, designed to protect waterways. Mahama praised journalists who risk personal safety to expose environmental violations, calling their work patriotic and assuring them of his continued commitment to the fight.
The employment initiative forms part of a comprehensive government approach to address both environmental harm and social consequences stemming from illicit mining while fostering sustainable economic opportunities in damaged regions.
