The National Concerned Small Scale Miners Association of Ghana (NCSSMAG) has condemned recent incidents of violence killing about 9 miners at Obuasi and called for urgent measures to address the challenges posed by illegal mining activities in the country.
In a press statement issued on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, the association expressed its profound concern over the loss of lives, particularly in connection with recent shootings linked to mining disputes.
The group extended its condolences to the families of the victims and demanded immediate investigations to ensure accountability.
Demand for Justice
President of the NCSSMAG, Michael Kwadwo Peprah, strongly criticized the use of violence against individuals involved in small-scale mining, noting that no one should lose their life while pursuing a livelihood.
“We demand thorough investigations into these incidents to ensure justice for the victims and accountability for those responsible,” he stated.
Root Causes of Illegal Mining
The association highlighted the role of past government administrations in exacerbating the illegal mining crisis.
According to the statement, the Dr. Anyimadu-Antwi-led committee had proposed a relocation plan to allocate 60% of mining concessions to indigenous small-scale miners.
However, the initiative was reportedly derailed, with concessions being handed over to politicians, businessmen, and foreign entities, including Chinese companies.
“This selfish decision has fueled illegal mining activities and worsened the social and environmental issues we face today,” Peprah emphasized.
Lessons from Other Countries
The NCSSMAG also pointed to successful strategies employed by countries like Peru, Brazil, Ecuador, South Africa, and Zimbabwe to regulate small-scale mining. It cited an example from Kingasini, where small-scale miners were successfully relocated, leading to stability and peace in the community. The association urged Ghana to adopt similar policies to address ongoing conflicts and mitigate illegal mining activities.
Key Demands
The NCSSMAG outlined four major actions it expects the government and relevant authorities to undertake:
Investigations and Accountability:
Probe the misallocation of 60% of relinquished concessions meant for small-scale miners.
Hold individuals and entities involved in the misappropriation accountable.
Implementation of Sustainable Policies:
Revisit and implement the recommendations of the Dr. Anyimadu-Antwi-led committee.
Ensure fair allocation of concessions to indigenous miners.
Support for Small-Scale Miners:
Provide technical, financial, and logistical support for indigenous miners.
Establish clear policies to curb illegal mining while creating legitimate opportunities.
Publication of Reports and Prosecutions:
Publish findings related to the misallocation of concessions.
Prosecute individuals who benefited illegally at the expense of small-scale miners and communities.
Call for Swift Action
The NCSSMAG underscored its commitment to working with stakeholders to find long-term solutions to the challenges in Ghana’s mining sector. It urged the government to act decisively, warning that the future of Ghana’s mining communities hinges on the decisions made today.
For media inquiries, the association provided contact information for its President, Michael Kwadwo Peprah, at 0248775556.
Background
Illegal mining, or galamsey, has long been a contentious issue in Ghana, contributing to environmental degradation, conflicts, and economic instability in affected communities. Efforts to curb the practice have often been hindered by corruption, weak enforcement, and inadequate support for small-scale miners.
This latest call to action comes amid increasing public outcry for accountability and sustainable management of Ghana’s natural resources.
