Local Government Minister Calls for Chiefs’ Involvement in Fight Against Illegal Mining

The Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, has urged traditional leaders to play an active role in curbing illegal mining (galamsey) and environmental degradation. Addressing the National House of Chiefs, he emphasized that amending the Chieftaincy Act would empower chiefs to hold illegal miners accountable within their jurisdictions.

Hon. Ibrahim noted that illegal mining poses a significant threat to Ghana’s natural resources and that traditional leaders must be given the necessary legal backing to summon individuals engaged in harmful practices. He assured the chiefs that the government is committed to restoring their authority by reviewing the Supreme Court’s decision that stripped them of this power.

The minister encouraged chiefs to collaborate with local assemblies to address sanitation and waste management challenges. He reiterated the government’s support for traditional institutions and pledged to work closely with them in matters concerning governance and development.