The President of the National House of Chiefs, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, has rejected proposals for a complete ban on all mining activity, instead arguing for tougher rules to ensure responsible mining.
He underlined that mining is an important contributor to Ghana’s economy and claimed that a complete ban would not be in the country’s best interests.
His remarks come as the government faces mounting pressure to take immediate action against illegal mining, which continues to destroy water bodies and the environment.
Several groups, including the Ghana Medical Association and Organised Labour, have urged President Akufo-Addo to suspend all small-scale mining operations or declare a state of emergency.
However, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II suggested a greater emphasis on encouraging appropriate mining techniques. He pointed out that the Minerals Commission currently oversees mining activities and emphasised that Ghanaians should mine responsibly.
He also emphasised the economic prospects provided by mining, saying that a blanket prohibition may result in severe job losses, particularly among young people.
“We should adopt the right measures to regulate illegal mining so they can all do responsible mining. As for the mining, we will do it, but we will do it responsibly.”
Lands and Natural Resources Minister Samuel Abdullai Jinapor echoed Nana Gyebi’s sentiments, stressing the government’s relentless fight against illegal mining.
Jinapor acknowledged the challenges posed by selfish interests and cartels but vowed to continue protecting water bodies, the environment, and forest reserves.
“Despite these measures, some nation-wreckers motivated by their selfish interests continue to destroy our water bodies and forest reserves. We know that what we are dealing with is money, and the cartels involved will always try to find ways of outwitting us.”