Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, the President of the National House of Chiefs, has dismissed suggestions for a complete ban on all mining activities, instead calling for better regulation to promote responsible mining. He emphasized that mining plays a crucial role in Ghana’s economy and that an outright ban would not be in the country’s best interest.
His remarks follow increasing pressure on the government to take strong action against illegal mining, commonly known as *galamsey*, which has caused extensive damage to water bodies and the environment. Various groups, including the Ghana Medical Association and Organized Labour, have urged President Akufo-Addo to impose a ban on small-scale mining or declare a state of emergency.
However, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II believes that the focus should be on encouraging responsible mining practices. He mentioned that the Minerals Commission already oversees mining activities and stressed the need for Ghanaians to engage in mining the right way.
He also noted the importance of mining in creating jobs, especially for the youth, and warned that a blanket ban could lead to widespread unemployment.
“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,” Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II said.
He further urged those calling for drastic measures, like a state of emergency, to consider the benefits that mining brings to the nation. “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,” he added.
Instead of a ban, he called for the regulation of illegal mining to allow for responsible practices. “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 views, reaffirming the government’s ongoing commitment to the fight against illegal mining. Jinapor acknowledged the challenges posed by vested interests but vowed to continue protecting the nation’s resources.
“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,” he said.
Jinapor emphasized that the government would not give up. “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 the cooperation and support of the traditional authorities 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 concluded.
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