The Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners has suggested that the introduction of the Community Mining initiative has been instrumental in the fight against illegal mining, also known as galamsey.
According to the Association, without Community Mining, the situation with galamsey would have been much worse than what the country is currently experiencing.
The Community Mining initiative, launched by the government in 2021, was aimed at curbing galamsey.
However, the policy has faced criticism, with those calling for its ban alleging that individuals are using it as a cover to engage in illegal mining.
But speaking to Adom FM’s Burning Issues, the Eastern Regional Coordinator of the Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners, Daniel Nyame, defended the initiative.
He stated that ,it has been effective in mitigating illegal mining activities.
“Without the Community Mining initiative, the galamsey problem would be far worse than it is today,” he said.
Mr Nyame explained that, while obtaining a license for small-scale mining can be time-consuming, Community Mining, which is supervised by district committees, allows for easier participation without the need for a license.
He also emphasized that, areas designated for Community Mining must be certified and approved by both the Lands and Minerals Commissions to ensure they don’t mine in water bodies.
“When mining is done under strict supervision, it is conducted within legal boundaries, but when it is unregulated, the consequences are what we are witnessing now,” he noted.
Mr Nyame also urged critics of the Community Mining initiative to educate themselves on its impact before condemning it.
He further revealed that over 100 chanfans are currently operating illegally on the River Pra and called for immediate action to arrest those involved in such activities.
Source: Kwame Kulenu
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