The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has reiterated its call for members of the Association of Small-Scale Miners to take a leading role in combating illegal mining activities that continue to pollute water bodies and destroy forest reserves in Ghana.
The ministry emphasized that the actions of a few unlicensed miners, particularly those operating in rivers, have tarnished the reputation of the entire small-scale mining sector, casting a shadow over the legitimate work of licensed miners.
This growing issue has led to intensified public pressure for the government to consider a blanket ban on small-scale mining—a move that the ministry warns could have severe economic repercussions. The ministry firmly believes that responsible mining, governed by strict adherence to rules and regulations, is the key to harnessing the nation’s mineral wealth without causing irreparable harm to the environment.
In a statement, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources expressed its commitment to ensuring that Ghana’s gold and other mineral resources are mined responsibly. The ministry emphasized that mining should not be left solely to expatriates, but should also be a profitable and regulated industry for Ghanaians. The Minister urged the small-scale mining community to assist the government in eradicating illegal miners, especially those operating in water bodies, as their activities are a major contributor to environmental degradation.
“I want to announce for all Ghanaians to know that God has blessed us as a country with gold and minerals, so we will ensure that it’s mined responsibly with all rules and regulations applied. Expatriates are not the only ones who should mine our gold; equally, Ghanaians can also do the same,” the ministry declared.
The ministry made a plea to all responsible miners to join in the fight against illegal mining, stating that only through concerted efforts can the government ensure that no one will have the courage to demand a blanket ban on small-scale mining in the future. “We will get rid of all those polluting water bodies, and after that, we can see if any individual or group will dare ask the government to ban small-scale mining in the country. That will not happen today or tomorrow,” the ministry assured.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Parliamentary Candidate for Akwatia Constituency, Ernest Kumi, echoed the ministry’s sentiments by outlining the significant socio-economic impact that small-scale mining has on local communities. Kumi warned that a blanket ban on the sector would adversely affect many Ghanaians, who depend on mining for their livelihoods.
“Mining is just like teaching and can also be linked to other professions like doctors. We’ve all heard about fake teachers, fake doctors, and what have you. Similarly, there are miners who are not carrying out their activities responsibly. But as with other professions, we must address the challenges wisely, rather than calling for a blanket ban,” Kumi stated. He stressed that the solution lies in dealing with the negatives through thoughtful and deliberate actions, rather than resorting to drastic measures that could hurt the sector and its workers.
The small-scale mining industry is a critical source of employment in Ghana, directly and indirectly providing jobs to millions of people. Leaders within the small-scale mining community expressed their gratitude to the government, particularly to Mr. Duker of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, for the support and resilience shown towards the sector. They also vowed to take up the challenge of eradicating illegal mining from within their ranks.
One leader passionately defended the sector, highlighting its importance as a source of employment for many Ghanaians. “If they are calling for a blanket ban on mining, we will send a clear signal that this is a bad idea. Personally, I employ close to 2,000 workers directly and indirectly. As we approach Christmas, armed robbery would have been on the rise if it wasn’t for mining. Mining is the only sector that employs over five million Ghanaians, so if people call for a ban, what kind of work do they expect these five million people to do?” he questioned.
The Ahafo Nkosuohene also weighed in on the debate, refuting claims that mining is inherently harmful. “If someone tells you mining is bad, that person is lying. Today, as a chief, if these issues on banning mining continue and my subjects are left jobless, I will tell all Ghanaians that mining is a good venture—but we need to do it responsibly,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of adhering to best practices to safeguard both the environment and the livelihoods of those who depend on mining.
The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources is committed to working with the Association of Small-Scale Miners to promote responsible mining practices. The government has made it clear that illegal mining, especially in water bodies, will not be tolerated. The ministry is determined to root out the bad actors who are tarnishing the reputation of small-scale miners and causing environmental damage.
By taking a proactive role in eliminating illegal mining, small-scale miners can help ensure that the sector remains a vital part of Ghana’s economy. The government has pledged to support licensed miners who follow the rules, enabling them to continue making meaningful contributions to their families and the nation as a whole.
The ongoing fight against illegal mining is a national priority, and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources is calling on all stakeholders to join in the effort to protect Ghana’s water bodies, forests, and natural resources. Only through collective action can the country strike a balance between responsible resource extraction and environmental sustainability.
