By P. K. Yankey
Anwia (W/R), May 30, GNA – Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources has handed over the sites for land reclamation at Anwia, Teleku-Bokazo and Nkroful galamsey degraded areas especially at the backyard of the Nkroful Agricultural Senior High School (NASS) to Ecorestore Ghana Limited.
This vital project is expected to reclaim 800 acres of degraded land along the River Subile in the Ellembelle District.
The initiative is being funded by Zijin Golden Ridge Limited, a large-scale mining company, in close partnership with the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
At a handing over event at the site between Anwia and Teleku-Bokazo, Mr Armah-Kofi Buah said the tree species selected for the project was carefully chosen to enhance soil fertility, restore ecological balance, and return the land to productive and sustainable use.
“The government remains committed to reversing the devastating impact of years of irresponsible mining activities, particularly within our forest reserves and farming communities”.
Mr Armah-Kofi Buah who doubles as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Ellembelle, said as part of the reclamation, dredging would take place for the muddy pool to flow and plant plants to restore the ecology and long-term health of the degraded land.
He said the Ministry of Lands has handed over the responsible cooperative mining scheme to the community and warned against any involvement in galamsey.
Mr Armah-Kofi Buah pleaded with traditional rulers who are custodians of the land, to support the project in a bid to restore the damage in the last eight years.
Mr Joseph Armah Agyekum, District Chief Executive (DCE) of Ellembelle pledged his commitment and support of DISEC, adding that his office would monitor the reclamation project.
He identified the pits as deadly traps which have killed people.
Nana Arvo Kwaw, Chief of Teleku-Bokazo thanked the Minister for the move to reclaim the land.
He said the area usually got flooded and spilled over to Teleku-Bokazo.
Mr Francis Kwaw Mensah Assembly Member for Nkroful Enlunlibo electoral area decried the presence of the pit since a child fell into it recently.
He pledged his support for the project to be successful.
GNA
Edited by Justina Hilda Paaga/KennethOdeng Adade
Reporter: P.K.Yankey