The Minerals Commission of Ghana has strongly opposed the suspension of mining license issuance as a strategy to combat illegal mining, citing that delays in processing licenses actually exacerbate the problem.
According to the Commission’s CEO, Martin Ayisi, such delays push individuals towards illegal mining activities, which cause significant damage to waterbodies and forest reserves.
During a session with the Government Assurance Committee of Parliament on Monday, October 7, Ayisi explained that while addressing illegal mining is critical, stalling the issuance of licenses for legitimate miners inadvertently creates a vacuum that illegal operators exploit.
He emphasized that the Commission has implemented measures to streamline the licensing process, transitioning to an online platform to reduce delays.
Ayisi recounted that upon taking office in 2021, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources instructed him to reduce delays in issuing licenses, recognizing that these delays contributed to the proliferation of illegal mining. In response, the Commission digitized its processes, enabling applicants to upload required documents and undergo inspections within a week or two, significantly reducing the processing time.
The CEO cautioned that denying licenses to legitimate miners would only drive them to engage in illegal mining. “When you don’t give them the license, what they will do is, they will go and do it illegally,” Ayisi noted.
He acknowledged that even licensed miners are not immune to compliance issues but stressed the importance of distinguishing between law-abiding operators and illegal miners.
Ayisi also raised concerns over recent calls for a total ban on small-scale mining in Ghana, stating that it would be improper to do so.
He argued that such a ban would unfairly punish law-abiding small-scale miners who have invested in their operations. “When you say ban small-scale mining, in my understanding, it means that don’t allow anybody to do it lawfully,” Ayisi explained.
The CEO emphasized that the Commission understands the frustration of Ghanaians regarding the environmental degradation caused by illegal mining but cautioned against wholesale bans. Instead, he advocated for targeted measures to prevent illegal mining while supporting responsible mining practices.
Ayisi’s stance aligns with the President’s assurance that the government is not against small-scale mining but seeks a sustainable solution to the problem.
The Minerals Commission’s approach prioritizes distinguishing between legitimate and illegal mining operations, ensuring that law-abiding miners can continue to operate while addressing the root causes of illegal mining.
As the debate on combating illegal mining continues, the Minerals Commission’s perspective highlights the complexity of the issue and the need for nuanced solutions.
By addressing the delays in license issuance and promoting responsible mining practices, the Commission aims to reduce the incentives for illegal mining and protect Ghana’s natural resources.
