Ghana’s Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang called for united efforts to combat illegal mining, which harms the environment and economy. During a parliamentary conference, she urged lawmakers to support regulatory measures and highlighted ongoing collaborations to restore degraded lands. Key officials emphasized the need to target not just miners but also influential financiers behind illegal operations, reaffirming Parliament’s commitment to addressing the issue.
Ghana’s Vice President, Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has emphasized the critical need for a concerted effort to address illegal mining, which continues to compromise the nation’s water bodies, agricultural lands, and forests. During her address at the inaugural Parliamentarians’ Conference on Restoring the Culture of Proper Small-Scale Mining in Ghana, she urged lawmakers and traditional leaders to align with government initiatives to regulate the sector effectively.
The conference sought to educate Members of Parliament about the environmental and economic repercussions of mining while empowering them to assume leadership roles within their constituencies. Vice President Opoku-Agyemang noted that the government is pursuing a multi-stakeholder strategy to promote responsible small-scale mining practices that bolster economic development without inflicting environmental damage.
She also highlighted the ongoing collaboration with key stakeholders, including security agencies and traditional authorities, to enhance enforcement measures and rehabilitate areas affected by mining activities. Alban Bagbin, Speaker of Parliament, cautioned that any Member of Parliament found engaging in illegal mining would face legal repercussions, reaffirming Parliament’s commitment to this significant issue.
Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, stressed the importance of not only targeting small-scale miners but also addressing the financiers and influential figures behind illegal mining operations. He called upon Members of Parliament to actively engage in the fight against this menace within their constituencies.
Furthermore, the ministry is enhancing its enforcement capabilities in collaboration with security agencies and is reevaluating the licensing process to streamline mining regulations. Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga reiterated the necessity for full parliamentary support, noting that illegal mining occurs within communities and demands grassroots mobilization and action.
In conclusion, Ghana’s leadership has recognized the pressing need for a united front against illegal mining, which threatens environmental and economic stability. Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang called for collaboration among lawmakers, traditional authorities, and other stakeholders to regulate the industry. The commitment from government officials to strengthen enforcement and engage communities reflects an understanding that a collective response is paramount to tackling this pressing issue effectively.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
