The issue of small scale mining has been a long-standing concern in Ghana, with reports of illegal mining operations causing extensive damage to the environment and communities. The Ghana Institute of Planning has called for a state of emergency to address the crisis and ensure sustainable mining practices in the country.
President of the Ghana Institute of planning (GIP) Percy Anaab Bukari, has added his voice to the growing calls for a ban on illegal mining popularly known as ‘galamsey’.
As illegal mining continues to wreck havock on Ghana’s farmlands, water bodies and environment, the president of the Ghana Institute of planning called for decisive action.
Speaking to 3News’ Claude Kumi Abisa, at the official launch of the fifty third annual conference of the GIP at Sunyani in the Bono region, planner Percy Anaaba Bukari stressed the need for a total ban on ‘galamsey’ sitting the irreversible damage it causes to the country’s natural resources.
He emphasized that the destruction is unacceptable and urgent steps must be taken to halt illegal mining activities to secure Ghana’s future.
Planner Percy Anaab emphasized that small scale mining in Ghana has reached a critical point where urgent action is needed. The environmental degradation and social problems caused by illegal mining activities are alarming, and immediate measures must be taken to protect our natural resources and communities.
The Ghana Institute of Planning will be hosting its 53rd annual general conference in Sunyani in October 2024. The conference will bring together policymakers, experts, and stakeholders to discuss ways to tackle the challenges of small scale mining and promote sustainable development in Ghana.
By: Claude Kumi Abisa Sunyani-Bono Region
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