The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources is urging small-scale miners to join forces with the government to combat illegal mining, which is not only polluting water bodies but also destroying forest reserves.
The actions of a few unlicensed miners operating in rivers have unfairly tarnished the reputation of the entire small-scale mining sector, sparking intense public pressure for a blanket ban on small-scale mining.
However, the ministry warns that such a ban would have severe economic consequences.
According to the ministry, Ghana has been blessed with an abundance of gold and minerals, and it’s essential that these resources are mined responsibly, with Ghanaians also benefiting from the industry.
The ministry is pleading with the Association of Small-Scale Miners to help flush out unlicensed miners operating in water bodies, allowing licensed miners to operate responsibly and earn a meaningful income to support their families and the country.
Ernest Kumi, the New Patriotic Party’s Parliamentary Candidate for Akwatia Constituency, highlights the significant socio-economic impact of small-scale mining in the area.
A blanket ban on the sector would negatively affect many Ghanaians. Kumi emphasizes that mining, like other professions, has its advantages and disadvantages. Rather than calling for a ban, it’s essential to address the challenges and correct them.
Research has shown that small-scale mining in Ghana has contributed significantly to the country’s socio-economic development, providing employment and social infrastructure ¹. However, it also poses serious environmental and health risks, including land degradation, mercury pollution, and water pollution.
To mitigate these risks, it’s crucial to regularize and monitor the informal sector, provide environmentally friendly equipment, and apply stricter sanctions for offenders.
The ministry’s call to action is a step in the right direction.
By working together, the government, licensed miners, and other stakeholders can ensure that Ghana’s mineral resources are mined responsibly, benefiting both the economy and the environment.
