Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, President of the National House of Chiefs, has dismissed calls for a total ban on all mining activities in Ghana, advocating instead for stronger regulations to ensure responsible mining.
He stressed that mining plays a crucial role in the country’s economy and argued that halting all mining operations would have negative consequences.
His statement comes as pressure mounts on the government to address illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, which has been causing widespread destruction of water bodies and the environment.
Several groups, including the Ghana Medical Association and Organised Labour, have called for a ban on small-scale mining or a state of emergency to tackle the galamsey crisis.
While acknowledging the damage caused by illegal mining, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II recommended that efforts should be focused on promoting responsible mining practices.
He highlighted the role of the Minerals Commission in regulating mining operations and insisted that the solution lies in ensuring proper mining methods rather than an outright ban.
He further noted that mining creates significant employment opportunities, especially for the youth, and warned that a blanket ban could lead to widespread job losses.
The chief stressed the need to strike a balance between environmental preservation and economic benefits.
Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II urged the government and stakeholders to strengthen regulations and intensify efforts to combat illegal mining while ensuring that legitimate, responsible mining activities continue to support the nation’s development.
“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.”