Launch of #Atree4life Project: Engaging Youth in Re-afforestation for Economic and Environmental Sustainability – John Mahama

At the 3rd Annual Transformational Dialogue on Small Scale Mining held at the University of Energy and Natural Resources, former President John Mahama announced the launch of the #Atree4life project. This initiative aims to make re-afforestation a financially rewarding activity for young people, integrating environmental sustainability with economic development.

In his keynote speech, Mahama highlighted the urgent need to address the destructive impacts of illegal mining, particularly galamsey, on Ghana’s environment, health, and economy. He emphasized the critical role of sustainable development and responsible mining practices to protect the nation’s natural resources for future generations.

“The devastation caused by illegal mining in our rivers, lands, and forests is a grave concern. We cannot afford to lose these precious natural resources to the greed of a few individuals,” Mahama stated. He referenced the catastrophic environmental damage and human casualties from illegal mining activities, both locally and globally, stressing the necessity for robust enforcement of mining laws and regulations.

The #Atree4life project is a key component of Mahama’s broader vision to reform the small-scale mining sector. This initiative will employ young people in re-afforestation efforts, planting economically viable tree crops in areas affected by illegal mining. By doing so, it aims to restore degraded lands, create sustainable employment opportunities, and contribute to the economic development of mining communities.

“Our young people will be at the forefront of this initiative, supervising the growth of economically valuable tree crops. This not only helps rehabilitate our environment but also provides them with a source of income,” Mahama explained.

Mahama’s speech outlined several other proposals to support sustainable mining practices, including:

1. Establishment of District Mining Offices: These offices, staffed by the Minerals Commission, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and other agencies, will streamline the application process for mining licenses, increase transparency, and foster optimism among small-scale miners.

2. Legal and Structural Reforms: Amending the Minerals and Mining Act to decentralize licensing, establishing a new categorization system for mining operations (small, medium, and large-scale), and ensuring Ghanaians operate medium-scale mining operations without foreign interference.

3. Technological Innovations: Introducing AI and other technologies for better monitoring of mining activities, ensuring operations are conducted in approved areas, and reducing environmental impacts.

4. Rehabilitation Initiatives: Creating a National Joint Action Team on Mining and Forestry to rehabilitate impacted forests and establish commercial crop production zones in degraded lands. This will include converting affected areas into plantations for palm oil, rubber, and other crops, funded by contributions from the Minerals Commission and private sector partners.

5. Community Involvement: Encouraging the formation of mining cooperatives to organize community members for efficient and sustainable mining operations, distinct from the existing partisan Community Mining System.

Mahama underscored the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders, including miners, environmental groups, local communities, and the government. He called for open and inclusive dialogue to achieve lasting solutions and build a sustainable, responsible, and prosperous small-scale mining sector in Ghana.

“It is time for us to come together and take decisive action to end illegal mining and chart a sustainable future for our mining sector. I stand firm in this commitment and will work with you all to build the Ghana we want,” he concluded.

The #Atree4life project represents a significant step towards integrating economic incentives with environmental stewardship, empowering Ghana’s youth to lead the charge in re-afforestation and sustainable development.