Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has laid out his comprehensive strategy for addressing illegal mining, or ‘galamsey,’ by emphasizing a preventive approach to ensure sustainable and responsible mining practices. Speaking at Kpone Katamanso on Tuesday, Dr. Bawumia responded to inquiries about his plan to tackle the illegal mining crisis, outlining his vision to reform and regulate the small-scale mining sector.
In his address, Dr. Bawumia stressed the need to sanitize and regularize the small-scale mining industry. He proposed that the Geological Survey Authority of Ghana should take a central role in mapping gold reserves to provide a solid foundation for responsible mining. According to Dr. Bawumia, the current situation is chaotic, with many miners operating without proper data or planning. This lack of coordination leads to environmental degradation as miners engage in trial and error, moving from one site to another without success.
Dr. Bawumia’s strategy involves setting up community mining schemes based on accurate geological data. He envisions a system where the Geological Survey Authority identifies and maps out gold-rich areas, allowing for the establishment of regulated mining zones. By doing so, he believes that mining activities can be conducted in a controlled manner, reducing the environmental impact and ensuring that mining practices are sustainable.
The plan includes the introduction of gold catcher machines that do not use mercury, which is commonly used in illegal mining and has detrimental effects on water bodies and the environment. By focusing on environmentally friendly equipment and techniques, Dr. Bawumia aims to minimize the ecological footprint of mining activities. He also highlighted the importance of enforcing regulations and ensuring that mining operations are conducted in designated areas to prevent illegal activities.
Dr. Bawumia’s approach reflects a broader commitment to addressing the illegal mining crisis through prevention rather than reaction. He believes that by proactively regulating the industry and providing support for sustainable practices, the government can better manage the challenges associated with mining. This proactive stance is intended to curb the environmental damage caused by unregulated mining and to promote responsible resource management.
He also acknowledged the importance of enforcement in conjunction with regulation. Dr. Bawumia pointed out that without proper regulation and enforcement, illegal miners might continue to operate covertly, particularly at night or in areas that are less monitored. Therefore, his strategy not only focuses on setting up a regulated framework for mining but also on strengthening law enforcement to ensure compliance and deter illegal activities.
Dr. Bawumia’s proposed reforms aim to address several issues related to illegal mining. By focusing on the prevention of environmental damage and the regulation of mining activities, he hopes to create a more sustainable mining sector that benefits both the economy and the environment. His strategy also seeks to provide clarity and stability within the industry, which is essential for attracting legitimate investment and fostering responsible mining practices.
The proposed community mining schemes are expected to offer a structured approach to mining that balances economic benefits with environmental protection. By providing miners with the necessary resources and support, such as gold catcher machines and access to regulated areas, Dr. Bawumia aims to improve the overall efficiency and safety of mining operations.
In conclusion, Dr. Bawumia’s strategy for combating illegal mining represents a significant shift towards a more preventive and regulated approach.
His plan emphasizes the importance of accurate geological mapping, environmentally friendly practices, and robust enforcement to address the illegal mining crisis. By implementing these measures, Dr. Bawumia aims to create a more sustainable and responsible mining sector that can support economic growth while protecting the environment.
