President of the National House of Chiefs, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, has rejected proposals for a complete halt to all mining activities in Ghana, instead pushing for stricter regulations to promote responsible mining.
He emphasized the significant role mining plays in the nation’s economy, cautioning that shutting down the industry entirely would bring adverse effects.
His remarks come as calls grow for the government to tackle the issue of illegal mining, known as galamsey, which has led to widespread environmental and water resource damage.
Several organizations, such as the Ghana Medical Association and Organised Labour, have urged the government to either ban small-scale mining or declare a state of emergency to address the galamsey crisis.
While acknowledging the harm caused by illegal mining, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II suggested that the focus should be on encouraging responsible mining practices.
He pointed out the importance of the Minerals Commission in overseeing mining operations and argued that enforcing proper mining procedures is a better solution than an outright ban.
The chief also highlighted the significant employment mining provides, especially for young people, warning that a total ban could result in widespread unemployment.
He stressed the importance of balancing environmental protection with the economic benefits derived from mining.
Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II called on the government and stakeholders to enhance regulations and ramp up efforts against illegal mining, while ensuring that responsible mining continues to contribute to national 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.”