Until the problem is resolved, galamsey won’t end- Minerals Commission Boss Warns

Mr Martin Kwaku Ayisi, the Chief Executive Officer(CEO) of the Minerals Commission has underscored the stringent regulations governing small-scale mining in Ghana.

He emphasized that this sector is exclusively reserved for Ghanaians, stating, “The small-scale mining is open to Ghanaians only so any foreigner who is involved in small-scale is illegal.”

Mr. Ayisi who appeared before the Assurance Committee of Parliament, highlighted the legal framework surrounding small-scale mining, referencing Acts 900 and 995, which clearly state that any foreign involvement in small-scale mining is considered illegal, and anyone who solicits a foreigner to engage in this activity is also engaging in illegal mining.

Ayisi elaborated on the current landscape of small-scale mining in Ghana, noting that it occurs in approximately 12 to 13 regions. When he assumed leadership of the commission, small-scale mining was limited to just five regions: Ashanti, Central, Eastern, Western, and parts of Upper East. The sector has grown significantly since the enactment of the Small Scale Gold Law in 1989 and the Mercury Law, both of which were aimed at regulating small-scale mining activities.

Addressing the challenges faced by the small-scale mining sector, Ayisi candidly remarked, “Until that problem is resolved, galamsey will not end.” He pointed out that historical mismanagement and the sale of state-owned mines have hindered the development of a sustainable small-scale mining framework.

According to Ayisi, prior to 1989, the legal landscape made lawful small-scale mining nearly impossible, forcing the government to seek advice from the World Bank and IMF, which eventually led to the creation of the necessary legal structures.

Ayisi emphasized the importance of exploration and access to land for small-scale miners, highlighting a critical issue: “The fundamental cause of illegal mining or galamsey is getting a place for the miners to work.”

He urged that designated areas for small-scale mining must be established, stating that without this resolution, efforts to combat illegal mining would be futile.

The Minerals Commission has made strides in coordinating with large-scale mining companies like AngloGold Ashanti, Newmont, and Gold Fields, which have provided licensed areas for small-scale miners.

Ayisi noted that when licenses are cancelled due to non-performance, those areas could be reassigned to small-scale miners, thereby improving their access to mining territories.

He reiterated the commission’s commitment to designating land for small-scale miners, recognizing that this step is essential for the sector’s development and sustainability.

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