The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has rejected the appeals made by former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo for a moratorium on all mining activities in Ghana, pointing to the environmental degradation and water pollution resulting from illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey.
While the Ministry recognizes her concerns, it contends that ceasing all mining operations could lead to significant economic repercussions.
In an interview conducted on Thursday, November 6, Paa Kwesi Schandorf, the Media Relations Officer for the Ministry, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to environmental protection while promoting responsible mining practices.
“Her recommendation stems from a commendable place, considering her equal concern for environmental destruction; however, it is not feasible to impose a halt on all mining activities at this time. Mining, as we are all aware, is a highly profitable economic venture that continues to propel our economic progress.
“The existing laws allow for mining, but they do not support illegal mining. Therefore, our focus is not on the entire mining sector but rather on combating illegal mining activities, and the government will remain committed to this objective,” he remarked.
