Mahama vs Akufo-Addo: Who issued more licenses for small-scale mining?
Martin Ayisi, the Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, addressed Parliament’s Assurance Committee to clarify the controversy surrounding the issuance of mining licenses in Ghana. His statements followed revelations made by the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, about the issuance of new mining licenses, which sparked public concern.
Ayisi highlighted that more licenses were issued during the administration of former President John Dramani Mahama than under the current government led by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. He presented a report to the Committee, chaired by Ablakwa, indicating that this significant increase in licenses during the Mahama era has contributed to the current challenges within the mining industry.
The CEO stressed the importance of responsible mining and improved oversight to address the negative impacts of small-scale mining, particularly the environmental degradation caused by illegal mining activities, commonly known as “galamsey.” He underscored that while small-scale mining is economically important, it is essential to find a balance between economic gains and environmental protection.
Ayisi also rejected calls for a blanket ban on issuing new mining licenses, warning that such a move could worsen the illegal mining crisis. He argued that not issuing licenses would only push more people into unregulated, illegal activities. Instead, Ayisi proposed targeted actions that differentiate legal mining activities from illegal ones, particularly focusing on criminal activities like mining in water bodies, which must be addressed.
His remarks reinforce the Minerals Commission’s stance on promoting regulated mining practices while combating illegal operations that threaten both the environment and local communities.
