GNASSM Clarifies “Ban Small-Scale Mining” Statement by Organized Labour
The Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners (GNASSM) has clarified misinterpretations surrounding a recent statement by Organized Labour, stressing that it did not advocate for a blanket ban on small-scale mining.
Instead, the statement criticized the government’s insufficient response to illegal mining (galamsey), a key factor behind the planned strike by Organized Labour on October 10, 2024.
GNASSM expressed solidarity with civil society organizations, labor unions, and religious groups over the environmental damage caused by galamsey and outlined a series of measures to support the government’s efforts in addressing the issue.
The association is therefore calling for the urgent deployment of personnel to water bodies to curb ongoing pollution, with GNASSM offering its assistance. The Association has also urged the government to reassess permits granted to companies operating in forest reserves and revoke those failing to meet regulatory requirements.
The Association further notes that it will additionally deploy a taskforce to apprehend illegal miners and those fabricating dredging equipment.
The association also emphasized the need for stricter enforcement of Ghana’s mining laws, urging the government to act under the provisions of the Minerals and Mining Act 2006 (Act 703), as amended by Act 995.
GNASSM further appealed to Organized Labour to reconsider its planned nationwide strike, warning that it could destabilize Ghana’s fragile economy.
A bipartisan approach, GNASSM argued, is essential to solving the illegal mining crisis with the association warning that those politicizing the issue are leading the country towards environmental degradation, particularly water shortages, which threaten both economic and social stability.
GNASSM further underscored the economic importance of the small-scale mining sector, which contributes 8.4% to Ghana’s GDP and 40% to merchandise exports, while providing employment to over a million people. The association called for balanced solutions to address unemployment and environmental concerns, framing the fight against illegal mining as a critical security issue.
