Chief Urges Government to Regulate Mining Instead of Banning

Daasebre Dr. Asumadu Appiah, Chief of Akyem Wenchi and Oseawuohene, has openly stated that the youth in Wenchi and neighboring areas are unlikely to stop participating in illegal mining, or “galamsey,” due to a lack of alternative employment opportunities.

Daasebre Appiah highlighted that illegal mining is the primary income source in the region, making it unrealistic to completely eliminate the practice.

He suggested that the government should shift from outright bans to implementing a regulated community mining scheme.

This approach, he argued, would not only legalize the mining activities but also enable the state to benefit from the resources and support environmental conservation.

“Our community relies heavily on galamsey for jobs. A simple ban won’t stop it. What we need are effective policies and guidelines to mine responsibly. I’ve already applied to participate in a community mining scheme,” Daasebre Appiah said.

He also emphasized the need for involving local chiefs in resource management, criticizing the practice of issuing mining permits to companies from Accra without consulting local leaders.

Daasebre Appiah made these remarks during a visit by NPP flag bearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to his palace in Akyem Wenchi as part of his campaign tour in the Eastern Region.

Dr. Bawumia acknowledged the environmental challenges and announced plans to focus more on community mining schemes with a more flexible licensing regime for small-scale mining.

“We haven’t perfected the approach yet. We need to support small-scale mining in a way that, if managed properly, allows for responsible galamsey practices.

A simpler licensing process is essential,” Dr. Bawumia stated. He also underscored the importance of involving traditional authorities in the management and allocation of mining sites to ensure sustainable practices.