The Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners (GNASSM) has shifted blame onto the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources as a major obstacle in the battle against illegal mining, known as Galamsey.
During an interview on Oyerepa Breakfast Time, the Vice President of GNASSM, Mr Samson Kofi Wiredu, suggested that the fight against Galamsey has not been sustainable due to the inadequate efforts of the lands and natural resources ministry.
Wiredu highlighted that the Lands and Natural Resources Ministry does not promptly approve licenses issued to applicants by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The minister responsible for this process delays in signing of the licenses, making it challenging for miners to obtain the necessary approvals. As a result, many individuals turn to Galamsey as the process of acquiring a license becomes excessively difficult.
Wiredu emphasized that contrary to popular belief, Small-Scale Miners are not the primary reason for the lack of progress in the fight against Galamsey; rather, it is the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources that poses the greatest obstacles.
He revealed that some high-ranking government officials exert influence on institutions such as the EPA, Minerals Commission, and Water Resources, instructing them to allow certain individuals to engage in illegal mining activities despite the ongoing crackdown.
Source: Oyerepafmonline.com / Joseph Marfo
