The National House of Chiefs has urged the government to actively engage traditional leaders in the fight against illegal mining activities in the country.

Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, President of the House, emphasized that any strategy to combat the illegal mining menace would be ineffective without the active participation of traditional rulers.

Speaking at the House's year-end meeting in Kumasi, Ogyeahoho Gyebi called for a collaborative effort between the government and chiefs to formulate a comprehensive plan and allocate the necessary resources to address the issue.

He highlighted the connection between illegal mining and activities in forest reserves, expressing concerns about the depletion of the country's forest reserves despite well-intentioned policies.

While acknowledging the intended purpose of the policy on mining in forest reserves, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi urged the government to reassess the policy's effectiveness and take corrective measures to prevent the depletion of forest reserves, safeguarding the future of the youth and upcoming generations.

The House President also stressed the importance of international collaboration to address climate change and encouraged traditional leaders to actively contribute to the peace-building process.

He called for the chiefs' commitment to ensuring peaceful, free, and fair elections in the coming year.

Mr. Stephen Asamoah Boateng, the Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, reported on the Ministry's success in resolving numerous chieftaincy disputes.

He announced plans to establish a Chieftaincy Management System (CMS) to enhance connectivity and collaboration among chiefs while preserving Ghana's rich cultural heritage.

Additionally, he appealed to chiefs to release land for increased investments.