The Chief Executive of the Minerals Commission, Martin Kwaku Ayisi has expressed opposition to halting the issuance of new mining licenses, arguing that such a measure could worsen the illegal mining, or “galamsey,” crisis.
His comments were in response to civil society groups and environmentalists calling on the government to revoke L.I. 2462, which allows mining in forest reserves and to stop granting new licenses.
Speaking before Parliament’s Assurance Committee on October 7, Ayisi explained that if legitimate licenses were withheld, people might resort to illegal mining to continue their operations.
He stressed that delaying the issuance of licenses could also drive more individuals to engage in galamsey, worsening the situation.
He further emphasized that even licensed mining companies do not always adhere to regulations, highlighting the importance of stricter monitoring and enforcement.
Mr. Ayisi also pointed to a specific instance of galamsey occurring behind a police station in Anyinam, Atiwa East District, where the authorities have failed to take action.
This underscores the broader challenges of enforcing mining laws in Ghana.
Mercy Addai Turkson
