The Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Martin Kwaku Ayisi, has said that small-scale mining in Ghana is exclusively for Ghanaians.

During a session before the Assurance Committee of Parliament on Monday, October 7, 2024, he reiterated that any foreign involvement in small-scale mining is illegal.

“The small-scale mining is open to Ghanaians only, so any foreigner who is involved in small-scale mining is illegal,” Mr. Ayisi asserted.

He referenced key legislation, particularly Acts 900 and 995, which prohibit foreign engagement in this sector, noting that even soliciting foreigners for small-scale mining activities constitutes illegal mining.

“It is strictly for Ghanaians, whether a man, woman, or adult. The large-scale mining is open to everybody, including foreigners,” Mr. Ayisi clarified.

Addressing the rampant issue of illegal small-scale mining, commonly known as "galamsey," Mr. Ayisi revealed that this practice has spread across approximately 12 or 13 regions in Ghana.

He provided context by explaining that when he joined the commission, only five regions — Ashanti, Central, Eastern, Western, and Upper East—were involved in small-scale mining.

Highlighting the persistent challenges in regulating the sector, he stated: “To delve into our biggest challenge, I will be very blunt with the committee: until that problem is resolved, galamsey will not end.”

Despite several laws being enacted since 1989 to manage small-scale mining, he noted that their implementation has been undermined over the years.

Mr. Ayisi also recounted the privatisation of state-owned mines during the Kwasi Botchwey era, saying: “We sold Tarkwa, we sold Prestea, we sold Dunkwa Continental, Akwatia mines, all of them were sold.”

He indicated that this historical mismanagement has significantly contributed to the current challenges facing the mining industry.

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