Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, has expressed deep concern over the alarming lack of support the Minerals Commission is receiving from security services in its efforts to combat illegal mining.
Hon. Ablakwa described this situation as deeply troubling and disheartening, particularly given the significant environmental and economic impacts that illegal mining has on local communities and the nation as a whole.
“Parliament’s Assurances Committee conducted a public hearing into the galamsey crisis yesterday. The CEO of the Minerals Commission, Mr. Martin Ayisi appeared before the committee. We showed him collected samples from our visit to 13 rivers and streams”.
Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
Ablakwa expressed concern that, apart from the Volta River, all other rivers he visited have been severely polluted and devastated by irresponsible mining activities.
He indicated that this widespread environmental degradation not only threatens local ecosystems but also jeopardizes the health and livelihoods of communities.
The MP pointed out that these communities depend on these vital water sources for drinking, agriculture, and fishing.
According to Hon. Ablakwa, the Assurances Committee urged the CEO of the Minerals Commission to reevaluate his institution’s stance, which contradicts the overwhelming demands of the Ghanaian people.
The committee, he indicated, called for a complete ban on all forms of small-scale mining due to the detrimental environmental and social impacts associated with these activities.
Additionally, the Assurance Committee urged the CEO to halt any recommendations for the issuance of new mining licenses to the Lands Minister.
According to Ablakwa, the Committee emphasized the urgent need for more sustainable practices that prioritize the well-being of local communities and safeguard vital natural resources for future generations.
The committee argued that without immediate action, the detrimental effects of mining activities could lead to irreversible environmental damage, negatively impacting the health, livelihoods, and cultural heritage of the affected communities.
As such, the MP indicated that by promoting responsible mining practices, it is possible to strike a balance between economic development and environmental stewardship.
Ablakwa Highlights Unaddressed Illegal Mining Reports
Furthermore, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa emphasized the CEO of the Minerals Commission’s complaints regarding the numerous reports filed about illegal mining activities that remain unaddressed.
He cited the ongoing illegal mining occurring behind the Anyinam Police Station in the Atiwa East District as a glaring example of this issue.
Despite countless reports submitted to the authorities, the destructive galamsey activities have continued unabated, highlighting a troubling lack of action from regulatory bodies.
As such, Ablakwa expressed frustration over the apparent inaction, stressing that this negligence not only endangers the environment but also undermines the efforts of law enforcement to maintain order and protect local communities.
He called for immediate intervention from the relevant authorities to address these illegal activities and to implement stronger measures to ensure compliance with mining regulations.
The persistence of such activities poses significant risks to public safety, disrupts local ecosystems, and threatens the livelihoods of those who depend on natural resources in the area.
“The CEO promised to investigate a number of issues we raised including MMDCEs obtaining mining licenses in their respective jurisdictions. He is expected to present the outcomes to the committee.
“The hearing has brought up many useful perspectives for the consideration of Parliament when we present our comprehensive report shortly”.
Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
The MP indicated that more public hearings by the Assurance Committee in Parliament are needed to address the pressing issues surrounding galamsey.
These hearings would provide an essential platform for stakeholders, including local communities, environmental experts, and industry representatives, to share their perspectives.
According to Ablakwa, this collaborative approach will contribute to developing effective solutions to combat illegal mining practices. “Together, we shall find a solution to this existential threat and stop the mass murderers”.
READ ALSO: Boris Johnson Criticizes Starmer for Accepting Lavish Gifts
