Galamsey: I will involve traditional leaders in granting mining licences – Mahama

The flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has pledged to involve traditional leaders in the significant process of granting mining licenses if elected president in the upcoming December elections.

Mahama emphasized that the inclusion of traditional leaders in the licensing process would be a significant step towards addressing the destructive impact often caused by illegal miners, commonly referred to as galamsey, across the nation.

Speaking at the 3rd Annual Transformational Dialogue on Small-scale Mining at the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) in Sunyani, the former president expressed concern over the detrimental effects of illegal mining on various sectors of the Ghanaian economy. He vowed to prohibit mining in water bodies and impose restrictions on permits issued for activities in forests.

"Among the adverse effects of illegal mining, including galamsey, is the destruction of forests and cocoa farms. We will safeguard cocoa farms from mining activities and completely prohibit permits for entry into forest areas. Mining in water bodies will be strictly forbidden," Mahama stated.

Highlighting the pivotal role of traditional leaders in Ghanaian society and emphasizing his commitment to inclusivity and stakeholder engagement, Mahama announced his intention to involve traditional leaders in the critical process of granting mining licenses within their communities.

Furthermore, Mahama stressed the importance of enhancing regulatory institutions such as the Minerals Commission, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Geological Survey Authority, and Natural Resources Universities. He emphasized the need for these institutions to be strengthened to effectively combat illegal mining activities.