The Minerals Commission has stressed that addressing the menace of illegal mining, known as galamsey, will remain a significant challenge unless the Geological Survey Authority(GAS) is empowered to conduct exploration for small-scale miners.

Speaking before the Government Assurances Committee of Parliament, the Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Mr Martin Ayisi, highlighted that for over 30 years, successive governments have failed to allocate designated areas for small-scale miners.

As a result, an estimated 3 million small-scale miners across the country have resorted to unregulated mining practices, leading to the destruction of forest reserves and water bodies.

Mr Ayisi outlined measures the Commission is proposing to tackle the menace of galamsey.

One key solution, he emphasized, is to mandate the Geological Survey Authority to identify suitable areas for small-scale mining operations, which would prevent miners from venturing into ecologically sensitive areas.

This would ensure a more sustainable and regulated approach to small-scale mining, reducing environmental harm and protecting Ghana’s natural resources.

The Commission's proposal is seen as a crucial step in the fight against illegal mining, as it seeks to strike a balance between promoting responsible mining and safeguarding the environment.