Ghana’s acting Minister for Energy has issued a firm warning against illegal encroachment on land designated for atomic energy projects, highlighting the government’s commitment to protecting critical national infrastructure.
Speaking in Accra on Wednesday, the acting minister emphasised that lands earmarked for the development and expansion of atomic energy facilities are protected by law and must not be occupied or repurposed without official approval.
“These lands are of strategic importance for the nation’s energy future,” the acting minister said. “Any attempt to encroach, squat, or carry out unauthorized activities on these sites will be met with strong legal action.”
The warning follows concerns that individuals and groups have begun using parts of the designated atomic energy land for farming, settlement, or other private uses, potentially complicating long-term plans for the use of nuclear technology and facilities in Ghana.
The minister reiterated that the government envisions atomic energy as a critical component of Ghana’s energy mix, helping to address long-term electricity needs, support industrial growth and enhance energy security.
“We cannot allow short-term actions to undermine our long-term goals,” the acting minister said. “These lands are essential to ensuring that Ghana can responsibly and safely develop its nuclear energy capabilities.”
Officials noted that the Atomic Energy Commission, established to oversee all aspects of nuclear technology in the country, has been actively mapping and securing land for future projects, including research and possible power generation initiatives.
Authorities are urging local communities and land users to respect demarcations and report any unauthorized activities on these lands to relevant agencies. In addition to legal sanctions, the minister said educational outreach would be expanded to ensure that stakeholders understand the significance of atomic energy sites.
Ghana’s pursuit of atomic energy has been driven by the need to diversify its energy sources, reduce dependence on fossil fuels and support stable power generation as the economy grows. The government has partnered with international bodies to strengthen regulatory frameworks and ensure adherence to safety standards.
In recent months, the government has taken steps to formalise land ownership records around key energy sites, and the acting minister’s statement affirms that this process will continue.
The warning is also seen as part of broader efforts to enforce land use regulations and protect government-controlled property from illegal occupation — a challenge faced in various sectors across the country.