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Hon. George Mireku Duker, Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, has stressed the importance of community engagement as the most effective strategy for tackling illegal mining (galamsey) in Ghana. He believes that engaging with communities in mining areas is crucial to securing their support and shifting their mindset away from the destructive practices of galamsey.
During a community engagement exercise at Manso Amenfi, Duker unequivocally condemned all forms of illegal mining, but argued that a complete ban on small-scale mining is not the solution. He highlighted the potential economic and social hardship that such a ban would impose on the country, particularly in mining communities.
Duker emphasized that the sector provides livelihoods for over one million Ghanaians, supporting a total of five million people. He proposed a case-by-case approach, prioritizing stakeholder engagement and ensuring responsible mining practices.
While acknowledging the role of military intervention, Duker stressed its limitations in the long-term. He advocated for regular meetings between government officials, community leaders, and residents to build consensus and garner support for combating illegal mining.
The Deputy Minister, who is also the coordinator of the Bawumia 2024 campaign in mining communities, urged miners to punish political parties advocating for a total ban, as such a policy could jeopardize the entire small-scale mining sector in Ghana.
Dr. Peter Yaw Kwakye-Ackah, the NPP Parliamentary Candidate for the area, echoed Duker’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for responsible mining practices while protecting the jobs of miners.
