Ghana’s Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has urged for collective action against illegal mining, which harms the environment. At a parliamentary conference, she emphasized the need for regulation and education among lawmakers. Key officials reiterated their commitment to enforcing laws and targeting influential figures behind illegal operations to protect the economy and communities.
Ghana’s Vice President, Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has emphasized the critical need for a unified response to address the issue of illegal mining, which poses severe threats to the nation’s water bodies, farmlands, and forests. Speaking during the inaugural Parliamentarians’ Conference on Restoring the Culture of Proper Small-Scale Mining in Ghana, she urged lawmakers and traditional leaders to actively support governmental initiatives aimed at sector regulation.
At this conference, the Vice President focused on the educational aspect for Members of Parliament regarding the environmental and economic ramifications of mining, empowering them to lead efforts in their respective constituencies. She noted that the government is employing a multi-stakeholder approach designed to promote responsible small-scale mining practices that benefit the economy while safeguarding the environment.
Furthermore, she highlighted collaborative efforts with security agencies and traditional authorities to enhance enforcement measures and rehabilitate damaged lands. Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, asserted that any MP found engaging in illegal mining would face legal ramifications, reaffirming Parliament’s dedication to addressing this issue comprehensively.
Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, stressed the necessity of addressing not only the small-scale miners but also the financiers and influential figures facilitating illegal operations. He called on Members of Parliament to take proactive roles in combating this issue within their communities.
The Minister indicated that the ministry is intensifying enforcement strategies in partnership with security agencies and is in the process of reviewing the licensing protocols to improve mining regulations. Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga reiterated that addressing illegal mining requires complete support from Parliament, as the activities predominantly occur in local communities, necessitating a grassroots drive.
In summary, Ghana’s Vice President has called for a collective effort to combat the escalating issue of illegal mining, emphasizing the detrimental effects on the environment and agriculture. The government is adopting a multi-faceted strategy to promote responsible mining practices while enhancing enforcement efforts against illegal activities. Parliamentary leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to addressing this pressing issue at both legislative and grassroots levels.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
