Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, President of the National House of Chiefs, has rejected calls for a blanket ban on all mining activities, instead advocating for stricter regulations to ensure responsible mining.
He emphasised that mining is a significant contributor to Ghana’s economy and argued that a total ban would not serve the country’s best interests.
His comments come amid growing pressure on the government to take decisive action against illegal mining, known as galamsey, which continues to devastate water bodies and the environment.
Various groups, including the Ghana Medical Association and Organized Labour, have called on President Akufo-Addo to ban all small-scale mining activities or declare a state of emergency.
However, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II urged a focus on promoting responsible mining practices. He pointed out that the Minerals Commission already regulates mining activities and emphasized that Ghanaians should mine using proper methods.
He also highlighted the employment opportunities created by mining, warning that a blanket ban could lead to significant job losses, particularly among the youth.
“You all know I am against Galamsey, and I will continue to fight against it, but that should not prevent Ghanaians from engaging in mining activities. Gold is for us, but the right methods should be used to mine it. That is why there is an institution like the Minerals Commission that is responsible for regulating these activities.”
“We are pleading to those calling for the declaration of a state of emergency, and those calling for a ban on mining should know the benefit the nation gets from mining. If we stop mining, most of our youth will be pushed out of jobs.
“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.”
“But we will not relent on our efforts. We will continue to adopt the necessary measures to protect our water bodies, environment and forest reserves and Nananom cooperation and support will be invaluable. We welcome the various concerns that have been raised by several groups of people, as well as their recommendations for dealing with this matter.”
