Betterland Ghana Limited has firmly denied allegations of illegal mining within the Draw River Forest Reserve. The company stated its activities are solely lawful exploration works, conducted under a valid mining license issued by the Minerals Commission.
The denial follows a GTV broadcast alleging illegal mining operations in the reserve. Betterland Ghana described the report as false, misleading, and defamatory. The company claimed GTV used unrelated footage, primarily from the Atiwa Forest, and misrepresented it as destruction in Gwira Banso.
This dispute highlights ongoing concerns about illegal mining, known locally as 'galamsey,' and its impact on Ghana's environment and economy. Ghana's mining sector is a significant contributor to its Gross Domestic Product (GDP), but illegal activities pose substantial environmental risks. The government has intensified efforts to combat galamsey, leading to increased scrutiny of all mining-related operations.
Betterland Ghana Limited emphasized that its operations are distinct from illegal mining. The company stated, “Our activities are conducted under a valid Mining License issued by the Minerals Commission after fulfilling all statutory requirements.” It further added that equating lawful expanded exploration with illegal mining is misleading and defamatory.
The company also stressed its commitment to regulatory oversight and compliance. Betterland Ghana noted that officials from the Forestry Commission supervise its operations daily. This supervision ensures strict adherence to Ghana’s environmental and forestry laws. The firm clarified it does not operate near river bodies or cocoa farms, contrary to the broadcast's claims. It also stated that the access route it uses was established by timber firms long before its exploration began.
Betterland Ghana Limited accused GTV of a gross violation of journalistic ethics. The company stated it was never contacted or given an opportunity to clarify facts before the broadcast. This omission, according to Betterland Ghana, represents a serious professional failure and evidence of bias. Such reckless reporting, the company warned, could damage investor confidence and erode trust in Ghana’s regulatory institutions.
The company reiterated its commitment to transparency and responsible operations. It called on GTV and Umaru Sanda Salifu to issue a full, unqualified public retraction and apology for the false broadcast. Betterland Ghana asserted that the public deserves truth, not sensationalism, in media reporting. This incident underscores the critical role of accurate reporting in maintaining public trust and investor confidence in Ghana's vital mining sector. Future developments will likely depend on GTV's response and any further actions taken by Betterland Ghana Limited to protect its reputation and operations.