Fostering Dialogue Among Stakeholders for Sustainable Small-Scale Mining in Ghana – Mahama

At the 3rd Annual Transformational Dialogue on Small-Scale Mining in Sunyani, former President John Mahama delivered a compelling speech emphasizing the urgent need for a collaborative approach to address the challenges facing Ghana’s small-scale mining sector. Mahama’s address highlighted the multifaceted nature of the issues at hand and outlined a comprehensive vision for a sustainable and responsible mining industry that benefits all stakeholders.

The Challenges of Illegal Mining

Mahama began by acknowledging the significant contributions of mining to Ghana’s economy, noting its role in providing livelihoods and driving development. However, he pointed out the severe consequences of illegal mining, including environmental degradation, health risks, and economic instability. He cited specific examples, such as the pollution of the Ankobra and Pra Rivers and the devastation of the Atewa Forest Reserve, to illustrate the urgent need for action against illegal activities like galamsey.

A Call for Collective Action

Mahama emphasized that tackling these issues requires a united front involving all stakeholders: miners, environmental groups, local communities, and the government. “We cannot afford to watch as our natural resources are plundered, and our communities suffer the consequences,” he declared. This call for collective action is essential to develop and implement effective policies that prioritize sustainable mining practices and hold those engaging in illegal mining accountable.

Strategic Proposals for Reform

To achieve a sustainable future for small-scale mining, Mahama outlined several strategic proposals:

1. Establishment of District Mining Offices: These offices, staffed by officers from the Minerals Commission, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and other agencies, aim to streamline the application process for mining licenses and ensure transparency and efficiency.

2. Decentralization of Licensing:  Amending the Minerals and Mining Act to allow district mining offices to issue licenses will increase the number of regulated small-scale mining companies and create more employment opportunities.

3. Involvement of Traditional Leaders: Including traditional leaders in the process of granting mining licenses ensures respect for local customs and enhances community involvement.

4. Support for Mining Cooperatives:  Encouraging the formation of mining cooperatives will enable community members to organize themselves and receive necessary government support for sustainable mining operations.

5. Technological Innovation: Introducing AI and other technologies to monitor and regulate mining activities will help reduce environmental impact and promote legal mining practices.

6. Environmental Rehabilitation Initiatives:  Programs like the Galamsey Rehabilitation Initiative and the #Atree4life project aim to restore degraded lands, rehabilitate forests, and clean polluted water bodies, creating jobs and promoting environmental sustainability.

A Commitment to Dialogue

In his closing remarks, Mahama stressed the importance of fostering open, honest, and inclusive dialogue among all stakeholders. “Only through open, honest, and inclusive dialogue can we achieve lasting solutions and build a sustainable, responsible, and prosperous small-scale mining sector in Ghana,” he asserted. By bringing together miners, environmental groups, local communities, and the government, Mahama believes that Ghana can chart a new, sustainable path for its mining industry.

Conclusion

John Mahama’s speech at the Transformational Dialogue on Small-Scale Mining underscored the critical need for collaborative efforts to address the challenges of illegal mining and promote sustainable practices. His comprehensive proposals and commitment to inclusive dialogue provide a roadmap for transforming Ghana’s small-scale mining sector into one that respects environmental heritage and contributes to the nation’s prosperity.