Outright ban on mining will affect 6 Million Livelihoods – Responsible Small Scale Miners

The ongoing debate over illegal mining in Ghana has shifted focus to the human cost, with approximately 6 million who are enjoying direct and indirect employment by the  small scale mining industry.

The Responsible Small Scale Miners Association warns that a blanket ban on small scale mining would have devastating consequences for communities affecting 12 per cent of Ghana’s population.

Addressing the media in a press conference on Sunday September 15,2024 in the Ashanti Region, the Vice President of the Association Daniel Kwaku Mensah said none of their members ate engaging in illegal mining.

“These are law-abiding

 citizens who will lose their livelihoods if the industry is shut down,” said the Association.

Experts agree, highlighting the need for nuanced solutions that distinguish between illegal and legal mining operations.

“As policymakers navigate the complex issue, they must balance environmental concerns with social and economic realities”. He said

 Reject Calls for Total Mining Ban

The  Association also rejected calls for a total ban on mining, arguing that not all miners are engaging in illegal activities.

The group emphasized its opposition to mining in water bodies and forests, but insisted that halting mining entirely is not the solution to the problem of illegal mining.

“We are against mining in water bodies and forests, but a total ban will harm responsible miners,” said the Association.

The group called on the government to focus on stopping illegal mining activities, particularly those destroying water bodies and forest cover.

“We urge the government to crack down on illegal miners and protect the environment, but not at the expense of responsible miners,” the Association added.

The Responsible Small Scale Miners Association represents thousands of small scale miners across the country and has been vocal in its opposition to illegal mining practices.

The government has faced mounting pressure to address the issue of illegal mining, with many calling for a total ban on the practice.

However, the Association’s stance highlights the complexity of the issue and the need for nuanced solutions that balance environmental concerns with the livelihoods of responsible miners.

Source: Ghana/otefmghana.com/ Jacob Agyenim Baoteng, Kumasi.