The Chief of Akyem Wenchi in the Eastern Region, Daasebre Dr. Asumadu Appiah, has voiced his concerns about the persistent challenge of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, within his community.
During a recent visit by the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the Oseawuohene expressed doubts about the possibility of eradicating galamsey without providing alternative employment opportunities.
“As for the galamsey, it is not something we can stop if you tell us to stop,” Daasebre Dr. Asumadu Appiah candidly remarked during the gathering. He emphasized the harsh reality that galamsey remains the primary source of income for many in the area, making it difficult to eliminate without viable alternatives.
The chief’s comments come in the wake of several government initiatives aimed at tackling illegal mining, including Operation Halt and Operation Galamstop. Despite these efforts, galamsey continues to thrive across major mining regions in Ghana, causing significant environmental damage to the country’s vegetation and water bodies
“We don’t have any job opportunities within our community; the only job here is galamsey,” the chief lamented. He urged the government to introduce effective policies and guidelines that would enable communities like Akyem Wenchi to engage in regulated, sustainable mining practices. “That is all we are asking from you—that you bring us those policies,” he added, noting that he has already submitted an application for a community mining initiative
Daasebre Dr. Asumadu Appiah also called for greater involvement of traditional leaders in the exploration and management of precious minerals, suggesting that their participation could help ensure more responsible and sustainable practices.
In response, Dr. Bawumia pledged to overhaul the licensing regime for small-scale mining if elected president in the upcoming December elections. He acknowledged that previous attempts to regulate the sector have fallen short and stressed the need for a more streamlined process that would allow for easier access to mining licenses.
“I think we haven’t gotten it right. For me, I think we should help small-scale mining, and if we can do it well, Ghana will also do well,” Dr. Bawumia stated. He emphasized the importance of protecting the environment while promoting community mining schemes, highlighting his administration’s commitment to a more flexible and accessible licensing system.
As the debate over galamsey continues, the exchange between the Akyem Wenchi chief and the NPP flagbearer underscores the complex challenges facing Ghana’s mining sector. Balancing economic needs with environmental protection remains a pressing issue, one that will require innovative solutions and collaboration between government, traditional leaders, and local communities.
