Small-Scale Miners back government's new plan to tackle galamsey

The National Concerned Small-Scale Miners Association of Ghana has backed the government’s Responsible Cooperative Mining Scheme, arguing that security operations alone cannot end illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

The association believes that helping unlicensed miners transition into legal operations will be more effective in combating illegal mining, protecting the environment and safeguarding livelihoods in mining communities.

In a statement issued on October 26, 2026, and signed by its president, the association challenged the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) to offer a better solution rather than merely criticising the government’s approach.

No legal cover for mining in rivers and forests – Cudjoe explains Sammy Gyamfi's stance

“The NPP cannot simply oppose formalisation without explaining how it intends to address the persistent challenges of illegal mining, protect our environment and secure the livelihoods of thousands of Ghanaian miners,” the statement said.

“We urge the party to state its position clearly and provide practical alternatives. Miners deserve to know whether the opposition to formalisation reflects genuine concerns about the policy or political considerations that do little to address their circumstances,” it added.

The association argued that Ghana’s longstanding efforts to regulate small-scale mining had failed to bring all operators under government supervision.

It noted that although Ghana introduced legislation to regulate small-scale mining in 1989 under former President Jerry John Rawlings, many operators continued to work without the required licences.

According to the association, the Responsible Cooperative Mining Scheme presents an opportunity to bring unlicensed miners into the legal framework while ensuring that their activities are properly monitored.

It explained that the initiative could complement the existing licensing system by providing a pathway for miners willing to comply with the law and adopt responsible mining practices.

The association also cautioned against policies that overlook the economic realities of mining communities, where thousands of young people and families depend on small-scale mining for their livelihoods.

Government raises GH¢3.39 billion as demand for T-bills grows

It maintained that any meaningful effort to end galamsey must address both environmental destruction and the economic needs of affected communities.

The association expressed confidence that the government’s approach could provide a more sustainable solution by facilitating legal mining operations while strengthening environmental protection and regulatory oversight.

DR/MA

Inside Ghana’s First 950,000-Barrel Sankofa Oil Shipment | Exclusive Tour