Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II
Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has called on all Ghanaians to support the government’s fight against galamsey.
Speaking at the Regional Consultative Dialogue on Small Scale Mining in Kumasi, he acknowledged that mining had been a necessity and that small-scale mining contributes about 40 per cent or more to Ghana’s total gold production yearly.
He noted that President Akufo-Addo and his government alone cannot fight and win the battle against illegal mining, and called on the citizenry to join the government to build the economy and as well save the environment.
Commendation
He commended the Lands and Natural Resources Minister for his passion to sensitise stakeholders in the sector, adding: “I know that there will be oppositions even from your party, but stand firm, for we are with you.”
Speaking on the theme “Sustainable Small Scale Mining for National Development”, he suggested to government to ensure that mining near rivers and water bodies are strictly banned, adding that reclamation should be key in small-scale mining.
The Asantehene also urged the government to facilitate the process with industry players, traditional authorities and other stakeholders. He added that all efforts should be made to address the needs of mining communities and also enhance their benefits.
According to him, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies also have critical roles to play in the fight against illegal mining, saying their Chief Executives, as Heads of the Security Councils, should be directly responsible for the fight.
He noted that ‘galamsey’ has become an activity which puts national security and public safety at risk, saying illegal miners now acquire some illegal arms and explosives.
“The small scale mining sector is confronted with challenges, giving a thin line between it and galamsey. I have warned my chiefs against such. Traditional authorities should be directly involved and consulted before licences are given, as they are custodians of the land,” he said.
Call for support
The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, called for the support of traditional authorities and their communities to help government end illegal mining in the country.
He noted that galamsey had cost the country a lot since government does not get taxes and royalties from the illegal business.
He added that it had also burdened the Ghana Water Company since it has had to spend more to treat water.
The Minister noted that it is through a national consensus and support for a policy on regulated small scale mining that Ghana’s water bodies may resurrect from their current state as well as avoid the looming water crisis in the near future.
Mr Jinapor stated that his ministry is working to reform the licensing regime to ensure that permit for prospective small scale miners are secured on time.
“We are going to ensure that the security components also work to the letter, and, as you know, we have vested such powers in the Regional Coordinating Councils to help us in the fight. At the very least, our water bodies should be safe, no mining in forest reserves and water bodies,” he stated.
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