Mahama Ayariga, Minister-designate for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, has called for the deployment of mining engineers to every district. This move aims to strengthen the monitoring and regulation of small-scale and artisanal mining activities across Ghana.
Mr. Ayariga made this proposal during his appearance before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Thursday, August 27. He emphasized the critical need for Ghana to significantly improve the technical capacity of institutions responsible for regulating the mining sector. This improvement is particularly vital at the local level where most mining operations occur.
Ghana's economy heavily relies on its natural resources, with gold being a major export. However, unregulated small-scale mining, often termed 'galamsey', poses significant environmental and social challenges. These challenges include water pollution, land degradation, and conflicts with agricultural communities. The proposed deployment of engineers seeks to address these long-standing issues by bringing expert oversight closer to the ground.
Mr. Ayariga specifically proposed that the Minerals Commission and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) receive adequate resources. He also suggested they be staffed with technical personnel who can operate effectively within districts where mining activities are taking place. He stated, “Let’s invest in Minerals Commission and have them a lot of mining engineers who are in every district.” This direct intervention would ensure consistent regulatory presence.
The presence of mining engineers in every district would allow authorities to identify mining sites more effectively. They could also monitor operators and ensure that mining activities comply with environmental regulations. Mr. Ayariga highlighted that these engineers would “identify every single space where a mining activity is taking place.” This ensures mining is conducted in a manner consistent with all environmental regulations, protecting Ghana’s natural heritage.
Effective regulation of small-scale mining requires authorities to know precisely where mining is occurring and who is responsible. District-level monitoring, as advocated by Mr. Ayariga, would make it easier for the government to distinguish between legitimate operations and illegal activities. This clarity is crucial for enforcing laws and promoting responsible mining practices.
The minister-designate also called for a system that encourages small-scale miners to operate legally. He noted that many young people who wish to mine legally face significant difficulties obtaining the necessary permits. This bureaucratic hurdle often pushes operators into illegal mining, where they may also be reluctant to invest in proper equipment and environmentally responsible practices. Streamlining the permit process could bring more miners into the formal sector.
Mr. Ayariga stressed that any effort to formalize small-scale mining must include strict protection for water bodies and existing agricultural land. He proposed that authorities identify where miners are operating and determine areas where mining can legally and safely take place. He urged, “Let’s engage, let’s ensure that they are doing it legally.” This approach balances economic activity with environmental stewardship.
Mining should not be permitted in water bodies or in ways that displace existing farmers and destroy productive agricultural land. Ghana's agricultural sector is a significant employer and contributor to GDP. Protecting it from mining impacts is essential for food security and rural livelihoods. The proposed engineers would play a vital role in enforcing these protective measures.
Mr. Ayariga argued that Ghana should not approach the mining sector solely from the perspective of prohibition. He believes the country can benefit economically from small-scale mining if the activity is properly regulated. This perspective suggests a shift towards formalization and sustainable practices rather than outright bans, aiming to harness the sector's economic potential responsibly.
The proposal reflects a broader national conversation about balancing economic development with environmental protection. Ghana's mining sector contributes significantly to national revenue, but its informal segment often operates outside regulatory frameworks. Implementing Mr. Ayariga's vision could lead to a more structured and environmentally conscious mining industry, benefiting both the economy and the environment. This would also enhance the livelihoods of many small-scale miners by integrating them into a formal, regulated system.