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The National House of Chiefs President, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, has dismissed demands for a complete ban on mining operations in Ghana.
Rather, in order to encourage safe mining, the President of the National House of Chiefs is pushing for stricter rules.
His position is in response to growing political pressure on the government to solve galamsey, or illicit mining, which has severely damaged the ecosystem.
To address the galamsey situation, a number of organizations, notably the Ghana Medical Association (GMA) and Organized Labor, have demanded the imposition of a state of emergency or the prohibition of small-scale mining.
Notwithstanding these requests, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II cautioned against taking drastic action due to the significance of mining for the economy.
“You all know I am against galamsey, and I will continue to fight against it, but that should not prevent Ghanaians from engaging in mining activities.
“Gold is for us, but the right methods should be used to mine it. That is why there is an institution like the Minerals Commission that is responsible for regulating these activities,” he emphasised.
The chief stressed the need for a balanced approach that protects the environment while supporting job creation, especially for the youth.
He warned that a blanket ban on mining could result in widespread unemployment.
“We are pleading with those calling for the declaration of a state of emergency and those calling for a ban on mining to consider the benefits the nation gets from mining.
“If we stop mining, most of our youth will be pushed out of jobs,” he added.
Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II urged the government to bolster regulatory control to guarantee ethical mining practices rather than suspending all mining activities.
He emphasized how crucial organizations like the Minerals Commission are to upholding these laws and defending the nation’s natural resources.
“As for the mining, we will do it, but we will do it responsibly,” the House of Chiefs President said.
Source: Ghanatodayonline.com
