The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources responsible for Mines, Hon. George Mireku Duker, has emphasized that community engagement is the most effective tool in the fight against illegal mining, known locally as “galamsey.”
According to him, the government cannot succeed in its battle against the environmental and social havoc wreaked by galamsey without the support and active involvement of the communities living in mining areas.
“Military intervention is necessary, but not a permanent solution. We need to engage with community leaders and residents to appeal to their conscience and gain their support in curbing illegal mining.”
Hon. George Mireku Duker, Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
Hon. Mireku Duker condemned illegal mining in all its forms. He underscored the critical need for community members to understand the destructive effects of galamsey on their environment, livelihood, and future.
Hon. Duker called on local communities to rally behind the government’s efforts to combat galamsey, stressing that educating community members about the environmental degradation caused by galamsey is key to stopping the menace.
The Deputy Minister emphasized that a nationwide ban on small-scale mining, which some have called for, is not a viable long-term solution.
While he acknowledged that military interventions have played an important role in combating galamsey, he explained that such measures are temporary, as military personnel cannot remain stationed indefinitely at mining sites.
Hon. Duker also addressed growing calls for a blanket ban on all small-scale mining in the country. He expressed concern over the economic implications of such a drastic measure, pointing out that the small-scale mining sector employs over one million Ghanaians.
“Small-scale mining supports the livelihoods of over five million people. We must not deny these individuals their means of survival. A total ban would drive unemployment rates up and could plunge many communities into hardship.”
Hon. George Mireku Duker, Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
To illustrate his point, Hon. Duker provided figures to emphasize the economic significance of small-scale mining. He noted that large-scale mining companies, by comparison, employ fewer than 10,000 Ghanaians.
He urged policymakers to adopt a balanced approach, advocating for responsible and regulated mining rather than an outright ban.
“Banning small-scale mining is not the solution. The focus should be on responsible mining practices,” he said, adding that the government must ensure that these activities do not cause irreversible environmental damage.
Call for Stakeholder Engagement
As a proponent of stakeholder engagement, Hon. Duker called for case-by-case assessments of mining activities.
“We need to look at each situation individually and involve all stakeholders. It is only through these conversations that we can come to a consensus on how to move forward in a way that benefits both the environment and the people.”
Hon. George Mireku Duker, Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
Hon. Duker believes that educating and involving mining communities in the conversation is crucial.
In his address, Hon. Duker also took the opportunity to remind small-scale miners of his efforts to protect their livelihoods.
As a key figure in the Bawumia 2024 campaign, he has committed to advocating for the continuation of small-scale mining under responsible regulations.
“Do not support those who want to take away your livelihoods. Their policies will only bring hardship to you and your families.”
Hon. George Mireku Duker, Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
Hon. Duker remains committed to ensuring that small-scale mining is not only preserved but also reformed to promote sustainability.
Hon. George Mireku Duker’s community engagement exercise highlighted the crucial role that local communities must play in the fight against illegal mining. His calls for responsible mining, tailored solutions, and stakeholder engagement mark a significant step toward addressing one of Ghana’s most pressing environmental and social challenges.
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