The Chief Executive of the Minerals Commission, Martin Ayisi, has opposed calls to halt the issuance of new mining licenses, citing concerns that it would worsen the illegal mining problem, known as “galamsey.”
Mr Ayisi made these remarks while appearing before Parliament’s Government Assurances Committee on October 7, 2024. He argued that withholding licenses could push people into illegal mining activities, as they would seek alternative ways to mine without official permission.
Mr Ayisi’s comments come amid rising pressure from civil society groups and environmentalists urging the government to revoke L.I. 2462, which allows mining in forest reserves and to stop issuing new mining licenses altogether.
However, Mr Ayisi emphasized that delaying or stopping the issuance of licenses would only drive more individuals to illegal practices, thus exacerbating the problem.
Mr. Ayisi also revealed that illegal mining is actively taking place behind a police station in Anyinam, in the Atiwa East District. Despite several reports made to the police, no action has been taken to stop these activities. He expressed frustration over the lack of police intervention, asking, “How come the police are not taking action?”
While Mr. Ayisi denied claims that the Minerals Commission is understaffe. He maintained that they have enough funds and resources to perform their duties, including inspections.
However, the chairman of the committee, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, disagreed, suggesting that these issues are exactly why small-scale mining and license issuance should be temporarily suspended.
Mercy Addai Turkson
