The Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings (MP), has called for collective action among African governments, traditional authorities, mining companies, small-scale miners and other stakeholders to strengthen mining regulations, combat illegal mining, protect water bodies and restore degraded lands.
She was addressing participants at the opening of the Mining in Motion Conference held in Accra on Monday, 19th October 2026, under the theme “One Continent, One Policy: Aligning Africa’s Mineral Future.”
In her address, Dr. Zanetor emphasised the importance of responsible mineral resource management and environmental protection, noting the need for African countries to work together towards a mining sector that supports economic development without compromising the environment and the well-being of future generations.
She stressed the importance of collective responsibility in addressing the challenges associated with mining, particularly illegal mining and its effects on water bodies, land and natural resources. She called on governments to enforce mining laws fairly and consistently while championing policy alignment through regional institutions, including the African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Dr. Zanetor also urged Parliament to support strong and fair mining legislation, while encouraging traditional authorities to safeguard their lands against illegal mining activities. She called on mining companies to ensure that their operations contribute positively to the communities in which they operate and that mined lands are restored rather than left degraded.
Additionally, she encouraged small-scale miners to formalise their operations, comply with the law and adopt practices that protect water resources. Scientists, civil society organisations and the media were also urged to contribute to improved mining practices through research, public education, accountability and responsible reporting.
The Minister further highlighted the importance of collaboration with development partners to promote cleaner technologies, build technical skills and support environmental restoration efforts.
The conference provided a platform for discussions on strengthening cooperation among African countries and aligning mineral policies to support the continent’s development aspirations. The theme underscored the importance of a coordinated approach to mineral resource governance, particularly in ensuring that the benefits of mining extend beyond revenue generation to include environmental sustainability and long-term economic progress.
Dr. Zanetor’s call reinforced the need for governments, industry players, traditional leaders and citizens to share responsibility for ensuring that Africa’s mineral wealth becomes a driver of sustainable development while protecting the continent’s natural heritage for generations to come.
The conference brought together the President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, a representative of three Asantehene, His Majesty Otumfuor Osei Tutu II ,some African Leaders and key stakeholders in the mining sector.
