Former Ghanaian minister alleges late forestry chief illegally granted mining access to 47 forest reserves.

Former Ghanaian Environment Minister Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng accused the late Forestry Commission CEO, Kwadwo Owusu Afriyie (Sir John), of illegally granting mining access to at least 47 forest reserves without proper procedures, claiming he reported the matter to President Akufo-Addo and briefed the Council of State twice. The allegations, made in a January 21, 2026, interview, highlight ongoing concerns over illegal mining and environmental mismanagement in Ghana.