President of the National House of Chiefs, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, has rejected calls for a complete ban on all mining activities.
Instead, he has advocated for the introduction of stricter regulations to encourage responsible mining practices.v
He highlighted mining’s crucial role in Ghana’s economy, arguing that a complete prohibition would not be in the nation’s best interest.
His remarks come in response to mounting pressure on the government to tackle the environmental destruction caused by illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.
Several organizations, including the Ghana Medical Association and Organized Labour, have urged President Akufo-Addo to either halt all small-scale mining activities or declare a state of emergency.
Despite these calls, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II recommended focusing on responsible mining practices, noting that the Minerals Commission is already responsible for regulating the industry.
“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 stressed the importance of ensuring that mining operations adhere to proper methods.
Additionally, he emphasized the jobs provided by the mining sector, warning that a complete ban could result in widespread unemployment, particularly among the youth.