Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, President of the National House of Chiefs, has cautioned against calls for a total ban on mining in Ghana, warning that such a move could cost the country millions of dollars in revenue.
Speaking at the commissioning of the new Minerals Commission Office in the Western North Region, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II also rejected suggestions to declare a state of emergency, emphasizing that responsible mining is the solution, not an outright ban.
“Those advocating for a state of emergency and a complete ban on mining should be very cautious. Do they understand the economic benefits we derive from mining? If we ban it, what will happen to our children’s future? Should they be left without opportunities? What we need is responsible mining, not illegal mining,” he said.
This comes in response to increasing pressure from various associations and unions urging the government to ban mining activities and declare a state of emergency due to the galamsey crisis.
Organised Labour has even given the government until the end of September to act, threatening nationwide strikes if their demands are not met.
