The Chief of Akyem Wenchi in the Eastern Region, Daasebre Dr. Asumadu Appiah, has expressed doubts about the ability to eradicate illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, in his area without providing alternative livelihoods.

Speaking during a visit by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Daasebre Dr. Asumadu Appiah emphasized that the lack of employment opportunities in the community makes it nearly impossible to eliminate galamsey, which has been blamed for the destruction of Ghana's vegetation and water bodies.

“As for the galamsey, it is not something we can stop if you tell us to stop," citinewsroom.com quoted Oseawuohene to have remarked.

He noted that despite the government’s efforts through initiatives like Operation Halt and Operation Galamstop, illegal mining persists because it is the only source of livelihood for many in the community.

The chief urged the government to provide clear policies and guidelines that would allow for regulated mining practices.

"We don’t have any job opportunities within our community; the only job here is galamsey. So all we are asking is that you give us good policies and guidelines to do it," he added.

He also said that the community had already taken steps to engage in formal mining practices, mentioning that he had submitted an application for community mining to the district authorities.

Daasebre Dr. Asumadu Appiah also called for greater involvement of traditional leaders in the exploration and management of precious minerals in Ghana, emphasizing their role in ensuring sustainable and responsible mining practices.

In response, Dr. Bawumia pledged to strengthen the licensing regime if elected president, aiming to facilitate legal and sustainable small-scale mining.

“We need a licensing regime to make it easy so that people can acquire the license to work,” Bawumia stated.

He also acknowledged the importance of supporting small-scale mining to benefit both the communities and the nation, the report said.

NAY/AE

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