Philip Bawa addressing the press conference
The Responsible Small Scale Miners Association (RSSMA) has rejected calls for a blanket freeze in the industry amidst concerns raised by the Trade Union Congress (TUC), and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) among others.
The leadership of RSSMA has also welcomed new plans by the government to combat illegal mining activities known in the local parlance as galamsey.
According to RSSMA leadership, it is out of place for the Christian Council, TUC, Coalition of Civil Society Organizations, some politicians, and notable faces in the country to propose a ban on all mining activities including responsible mining, though, there are a few challenges.
At a press conference held in Kumasi, the president of the association, Mr. Philip Bawa on the members' behalf expressed their support for the government's establishment of a 5-member ministerial committee to evaluate efforts to combat illegal mining.
"It's unjust to punish law-abiding miners for the sins of a few. We stand with the government in the fight against illegal mining, particularly in water bodies and forest reserves," he said.
According to Graphic Online, as captured on the 16th of January 2024, 2,276 persons were killed in 2023 involving 14135 reported road crashes, which involved close to 25,000 vehicles. It is further reported that around 15,000 people suffered varying degrees of injuries whilst about 2600 persons got knocked down. Ladies and gentlemen, have we called for a total ban on the transport sector? We strongly disagree with the Trade Union Congress' (TUC) call for a freeze on all small-scale mining operations," he said.
The association contended that a move to ban mining would unfairly affect responsible and licensed miners, who are contributing significantly to the national economy.
"We estimate that over 6 million people depend on the small-scale mining industry for their livelihood," Philip Bawa added.
The association bemoaned politicization and lack of effective supervision by the Minerals Commission for the persistence of illegal mining.
"RSSMA urges the government to focus on strengthening enforcement and regulation, rather than scapegoating responsible miners. Why single out small-scale mining for punishment when other industries with safety concerns aren't treated similarly?" Philip Bawa quizzed.
