Philip Bawa, president of the Responsible Small-Scale Miners Association of Ghana, announced plans for a demonstration on October 11 to express their opposition to Organized Labour’s call for a ban on small-scale mining. “Their motive is not clear. We are responsible small-scale miners, legalized to conduct legitimate business in this country.”
This push for a ban arises amidst ongoing concerns about the environmental effects of illegal mining, particularly small-scale operations known as “Galamsey,” which have caused significant ecological harm, including deforestation and water pollution. Such issues have led to government interventions and discussions on finding a solution that does not negatively impact legitimate mining activities.
Speaking on Starr Today on October 8, 2024, Mr. Bawa criticized the suggestion of declaring a state of emergency to tackle illegal mining, asserting, “That is not fair. We agree that the menace of illegal small-scale mining needs to be attended to, but the solution cannot involve punishing those who operate legally.” He highlighted the importance of the small-scale mining sector, which accounts for 40% of Ghana’s GDP and directly employs one million people.
Reflecting on past government actions, Mr. Bawa pointed out, “In 2017, the government imposed a ban on all forms of small-scale mining, yet during that period, the sector produced the highest growth in this country. What is the guarantee that a state of emergency is the solution to this problem?” He urged the government to recognize the lawful operations of small-scale miners, declaring, “If you deny my livelihood, definitely anything is possible. I can die or anything.”
Mr. Bawa expressed concern that threats against legitimate miners jeopardize their livelihoods and the broader economy, stating, “You are denying my livelihood and want to put my life, my family, and others in jeopardy, collapsing the Ghanaian economy.” He also called for unity among miners to address environmental challenges, saying, “We are concerned about the degradation of the environment. We are concerned about the pollution of the water bodies.”
As the date for the protest approaches, Mr. Bawa remains steadfast, declaring, “We want to let everyone know that the motive of organised labour is not clear to us. They are playing political football with our business.” The association aims to rally public support to defend the small-scale mining industry while demanding clarity from organised labour about their intentions.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Mary Asantewaa Buabeng
