Repeal L.I 2462 and Ban Small-Scale Mining To Preserve The Environment and Public Health: Yakubu Adam To Government

The President of Ghana

In the last decade, Ghana has witnessed the rapid degradation of its forest reserves and water bodies, primarily due to the activities of small-scale mining, particularly illegal mining (galamsey). The legal framework that supports small-scale mining in forest reserves, encapsulated in Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2462, has become a topic of intense national debate. The time has come for Ghana to seriously consider repealing L.I. 2462, which allows for unrestricted mining in our forest reserves, and move towards an outright ban on small-scale mining. This action is necessary to safeguard our environment, protect public health, and preserve the future of our natural resources.

L.I. 2462: A License for Environmental Destruction

L.I. 2462, promulgated under the Minerals and Mining Act, grants small-scale miners the legal right to operate in designated areas, including forest reserves. Originally intended to provide opportunities for local miners to benefit from the country's rich mineral resources, it has instead become a legal loophole for environmental devastation. The regulation, which was intended to encourage sustainable mining practices, is now being misused, as many miners fail to adhere to the required environmental guidelines. The consequence is widespread destruction of forest reserves, the contamination of water bodies, and the loss of biodiversity.

The most alarming issue with L.I. 2462 is that it allows small-scale mining in ecologically sensitive areas—forest reserves that are crucial for carbon sequestration, water regulation, and biodiversity. By permitting mining in these areas, Ghana risks losing one of its most valuable natural assets: its forests. Forest reserves play an essential role in mitigating climate change, preserving wildlife habitats, and maintaining the water cycle.

Environmental and Health Benefits of Repealing L.I. 2462

Repealing L.I. 2462 and instituting a ban on small-scale mining would yield numerous environmental and health benefits for Ghana:

1. Forest Conservation
Ghana’s forest reserves are key to mitigating climate change. Forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing large amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. By preserving these reserves, Ghana can continue to contribute to global efforts to reduce greenhouse gases, combat deforestation, and support biodiversity conservation. Repealing L.I. 2462 would prevent further destruction of these vital ecosystems.

2. Protection of Water Bodies
The environmental degradation caused by small-scale mining has had devastating effects on Ghana’s rivers and water bodies. Mercury, cyanide, and other toxic chemicals used in mining operations seep into rivers, poisoning water sources. The Pra, Ankobra, and Birim Rivers, once the lifeblood of many communities, are now heavily polluted. Repealing L.I. 2462 would stop mining activities in forest reserves, where many of these water bodies originate, and contribute to the restoration of clean and safe water supplies.

3. Reduction of Health Hazards
The use of mercury and other harmful chemicals in small-scale mining poses severe health risks to miners and communities living nearby. Mercury exposure, for example, can cause irreversible damage to the nervous system, leading to cognitive impairments, kidney problems, and respiratory issues. The release of these toxins into water bodies contaminates fish and crops, which can further affect human health through the food chain. By banning small-scale mining, Ghana would mitigate the public health crisis caused by mercury poisoning and other mining-related contaminants.

4. Preservation of Agriculture and Livelihoods

Unregulated small-scale mining destroys arable land, displacing farmers and threatening food security. Large tracts of farmlands have been turned into desolate wastelands, unsuitable for agriculture. Repealing L.I. 2462 would halt the encroachment of miners on agricultural lands, ensuring that farming—an important source of livelihood for many rural communities—can continue without disruption.

The Need to Stop Galamsey
Illegal small-scale mining, or galamsey, has been at the center of Ghana's environmental crisis. The uncontrolled activities of illegal miners have caused unprecedented damage to ecosystems, endangered public health, and strained government resources. Despite government efforts to combat galamsey, recent reports indicate that the problem persists. Forests continue to be razed, water bodies remain contaminated, and illegal mining activities still operate with impunity in many areas.

One of the biggest concerns regarding galamsey is the widespread use of mercury. Mercury is an extremely toxic heavy metal that not only contaminates rivers and lakes but also accumulates in fish and other aquatic organisms. When humans consume these fish, the mercury enters their bodies, leading to long-term health issues like neurological disorders, kidney damage, and even death in severe cases.

The destruction of Ghana’s water bodies through galamsey also exacerbates the country’s water crisis. With most rivers heavily polluted, many communities are left with little or no access to clean drinking water. In some cases, the government has had to resort to expensive water treatment processes to make water safe for consumption. However, even with treatment, it is often difficult to remove all traces of mercury and other toxic substances.

Recent Concerns and the Urgency of Repealing L.I. 2462

The recent surge in environmental activism and media reports about galamsey has highlighted the need for more decisive government action. Several prominent environmental groups, traditional leaders, and concerned citizens have called for a ban on all forms of mining in sensitive areas, including forest reserves. The government, while stepping up enforcement, still faces challenges in completely eradicating illegal mining due to the high economic stakes and deep-rooted social issues surrounding it.

Moreover, there are increasing concerns about the long-term economic consequences of environmental degradation caused by small-scale mining. Tourism, a major source of revenue for Ghana, relies heavily on the natural beauty of the country’s landscapes. The destruction of forests and water bodies could have a lasting negative impact on eco-tourism, reducing the income potential of this industry.

The Case for Banning Small-Scale Mining
While small-scale mining was initially promoted as a means to empower local communities and promote economic development, the reality has been far from beneficial. In many cases, the environmental costs have outweighed the economic gains. Banning small-scale mining entirely, along with repealing L.I. 2462, would send a strong message that Ghana is serious about protecting its environment and the health of its people.

The Way Forward: Comprehensive Solutions
To effectively address the environmental and health crisis caused by small-scale mining, the following steps should be considered:

1. Immediate Repeal of L.I. 2462: Allowing mining in forest reserves is incompatible with Ghana’s long-term environmental and public health goals. The repeal of L.I. 2462 is necessary to protect these fragile ecosystems from further exploitation.
2. Total Ban on Small-Scale Mining: While artisanal mining has historically contributed to the livelihoods of some Ghanaians, its environmental and health costs far outweigh the benefits. A complete ban on small-scale mining is the most effective way to stop further destruction and initiate the process of environmental recovery.
3. Alternative Livelihood Programs: The government must offer alternative livelihoods to those who depend on small-scale mining for survival. This could include investments in sustainable agriculture, vocational training, and eco-tourism, creating jobs that do not involve environmental destruction.
4. Strengthened Law Enforcement: Enforcement of environmental regulations must be strengthened, with strict penalties for illegal mining activities. Adequate resources should be allocated to law enforcement agencies to ensure that the ban on small-scale mining is effectively implemented.
5. Environmental Rehabilitation Initiatives: Large-scale reforestation projects, combined with the restoration of water bodies, should be launched to reverse the damage caused by small-scale mining. These initiatives would help Ghana recover from the environmental degradation caused by mining and ensure a healthier, more sustainable future for all.

In conclusion, the time has come for Ghana to make a bold decision: repeal L.I. 2462 and ban small-scale mining. The environmental and health costs of continuing to allow mining in forest reserves are too high. By protecting our forests, water bodies, and public health, Ghana can take a critical step towards sustainable development. We owe it to future generations to preserve our natural resources and ensure that they inherit a country rich in biodiversity, clean water, and healthy communities.

Aurhor
Yakubu Adam (Toxicologist)