Gov’t targets illegal mining, not the mining industry – Mahama Ayariga

Ghana's Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, has emphasized that the government's anti-galamsey campaign is not aimed at eliminating mining, but rather to eradicate activities that are not in line with the country's legal framework. He noted that mining remains a crucial economic activity in Ghana, with a history stretching back centuries, and would persist as long as commercially viable mineral deposits exist.

Speaking at the National Conference for Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives on Illegal Small-Scale Mining in Kumasi, Ayariga called on local authorities to play a more proactive role in addressing illegal mining. He made it clear that Ghanaian laws do not ban mining as an economic activity, but do criminalize operations that are carried out without the necessary authorization or in contravention of relevant regulations.

The distinction between legal and illegal mining is crucial, Ayariga stressed, in formulating the national response. He argued that efforts should be directed towards ensuring that mining activities adhere to the law, rather than treating all forms of mining as unlawful. Furthermore, he declared his intention to spearhead the anti-galamsey campaign, despite the political risks involved in confronting those involved in such practices.

Ayariga pledged to move into what he termed the "line of fire" and ensure that Regional Ministers and Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives were equally committed to the anti-galamsey initiative. His remarks form part of a wider initiative to encourage local government authorities to collaborate with the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources in the fight against illegal mining, while also supporting lawful mining activities.