National House of Chiefs President rejects blanket ban on mining

Accra, Ghana - Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, President of the National House of Chiefs, has spoken out against calls for a complete ban on mining activities in Ghana, instead advocating for stricter regulations to ensure responsible mining practices.

Gyebi emphasized that mining significantly contributes to Ghana's economy and a total ban would not serve the country's best interests.

He stressed the importance of promoting responsible mining practices, highlighting the Minerals Commission's regulatory role and the need for proper mining methods.

He also warned that a blanket ban could lead to significant job losses, particularly among youth, and undermine the livelihoods of many Ghanaians.

“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," he said.

Meanwhile, Lands and Natural Resources Minister Samuel Abdullai Jinapor has echoed Gyebi's sentiments, reaffirming the government's commitment to fighting illegal mining. Jinapor acknowledged challenges posed by selfish interests and cartels but vowed to protect 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," he stated.

The government has taken measures to address illegal mining, including tasking Regional Ministers to enforce laws and deploying the Operation Halt taskforce.

Source : Lead News Online