Licensed small-scale miners across the country have been urged to actively participate in national discussions on the illegal mining crisis.
The call was made by the Deputy Minister for Mining, Hon. George Mireku Duker, MP, who stressed that the miners’ voices are crucial in contextualizing the illegal mining, or “galamsey,” issue.
Speaking at a meeting with small-scale miners in Prestea Huni Valley, Western Region, on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, Hon. Duker highlighted that the miners’ silence on the galamsey issue has allowed the narrative to shift in a way that could jeopardize their livelihoods. He emphasized that the government’s stance is not against small-scale mining but is focused on implementing policies to regulate and strengthen the sector. However, this requires the miners’ public support to clarify the distinction between responsible small-scale mining and illegal operations.
Hon. Duker, a strong advocate for responsible small-scale mining, explained that many people calling for a total ban on small-scale mining lack an understanding of the industry’s complexities. He urged miners to educate the public on how legal mining differs from illegal practices, especially in terms of environmental damage, such as mining in water bodies.
“Organized labor is against you. I have been defending you everywhere, but I can’t do it alone. You need to rise and support me. Help educate Ghanaians on the intricacies of mining so they don’t confuse your trade with illegal mining. We know mining in water bodies is harmful, but some are doing it, and they think it’s you. If you want to protect your jobs, you must help the government eliminate those engaging in illegal activities,” he said.
Hon. Duker also noted that small-scale mining provides direct and indirect employment to over 5 million Ghanaians, making a total ban on the sector unfeasible. He urged miners to report galamsey operators to the authorities and support government efforts to tackle the menace, emphasizing that community involvement in mining areas is key to success.
Hon. Barbara Oteng, Board Chair of the Minerals Commission and NPP Parliamentary Candidate for Prestea Huni Valley, echoed the government’s commitment to the small-scale mining sector.
She outlined several government initiatives, including the introduction of the Community Mining Scheme, decentralizing services through local offices, and facilitating licensing with an expedited online system.
The Chairman of the occasion, who also serves as the Divisional Chief of Prestea-Himan, supported the Deputy Minister’s message, emphasizing that local communities should benefit from their natural resources. He stressed that small-scale miners should not be blamed for the actions of a small group of lawbreakers and called for better enforcement of existing laws.
The leadership of the Small-Scale Miners’ Association expressed their support for the government’s efforts and announced a rigorous registration drive for their members. They are also instituting a self-regulation framework similar to that of the GPRTU, calling for collective efforts from all miners to help regulate the sector.