Speak against calls for ban on mining – Mireku Duker begs small-scale miners

Deputy Lands and Natural Resources Minister, George Mireku Duker, has called on small-scale miners to rise and speak against calls for the ban on all small-scale mining operations.

The minister maintains that the small-scale mining sector contributes to Ghana’s economic growth and has employed many Ghanaians, hence, calls for a ban will not be in the interest of the nation.

“The small-scale mining sector alone contributes not less than 8.4 percent to our GDP. It is a sector that supports Ghana’s economic growth and it employs more Ghanaian youth. The large-scale mining companies in Ghana employ less than 10,000 workers, but the small-scale mining sector employs about 1 million Ghanaians.

“These people also take care of other relatives and the impact cuts across. If we ban mining, what will be the alternative for these people in terms of jobs?”

He, however, emphasised the government’s efforts to promote responsible mining and called on inhabitants in mining communities to join the fight against the destruction of water bodies.

Mr. Duker, speaking at the commissioning of the Meretweso Community Mining Scheme in the Upper Denkyira East Municipality of the Central Region, also denied claims that the scheme is fueling illegal mining activities.

“Organised Labour says they will embark on a strike, you also have to rise and speak. Small-scale miners, rise and speak. Someone is in Accra and does not understand the concept of mining, but we those in mining communities and know about it should continue to educate Ghanaians.

“Please rise against people who mine in the water bodies. Those who mine in the water bodies are nation-wreckers. The mining has to be done and done responsibly.”

-citinewsroom