Small-Scale Miners Defend Their Trade Amid Calls for Ban

The Responsible Small-Scale Miners Association (RSSMA) has voiced strong opposition to recent calls from various organizations seeking a ban on small-scale mining activities.

At recently held demonstration, the association argued that the government should instead encourage responsible mining practices.

They emphasized that their members operate with valid permits and adhere to regulations designed to protect the environment.

“We have not engaged in irresponsible mining that harms our water bodies,” They stated.

They expressed frustration over the negative perception of miners, asserting, “We are proud of what we do and will not hide our profession.”

They drew parallels between the struggles of small-scale miners and other marginalized groups, stating, “Just as others advocate for their rights, we will advocate for ours.”

According to them, the vital economic role of small-scale mining, which provides jobs for over one million people, warning that any ban could worsen the unemployment crisis in the country.

The association’s membership spans across political affiliations, including supporters of both the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

In view of this, they criticized political motives behind the ban, suggesting that envy towards the current government is influencing the discourse.

“The narrative that demonizes miners needs to change,” they said, pledging to advocate for responsible practices and oppose any calls for a blanket ban on the industry.

The RSSMA aims to unite its members to protect their livelihoods while emphasizing their commitment to environmental stewardship.

They criticized the proposals from various organizations, including the Trades Union Congress (TUC), labeling them as “unacceptable” and “irresponsible.”

They urged President Akufo-Addo to reject these calls and instead support legitimate miners who operate within legal frameworks.

They also highlighted that small-scale mining provides employment to over six million people, arguing that banning these activities would exacerbate unemployment in the country.

“We take pride in our work and have permits to operate responsibly,” they stated. “Why should we be demonized for our trade?”

The association also pointed to the dangers of increasing crime associated with mining bans, recalling the detrimental effects of the 2017-2018 mining ban, which led to financial hardships for many families.

Echoing these sentiments, leaders of the Association stressed the distinction between legal small-scale mining and illegal galamsey operations.

They called for targeted action against illegal miners instead of punishing those who adhere to regulations.

“Any river pollution affects our business directly, making it harder to recover gold,” they noted. “We are ready to collaborate with authorities to tackle illegal mining, but a blanket ban will only harm those of us who are compliant.”

The associations are urging the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources to expedite the processing of mining applications to ensure that responsible miners can operate without undue hindrance. They are committed to self-regulation, vowing to eliminate irresponsible miners within 60 days.

As discussions surrounding environmental degradation intensify, the small-scale mining community is determined to assert their role in the economy while advocating for responsible practices.

The call for unity among miners across political lines was a central theme, with leaders urging solidarity in the face of external pressures.

The RSSMA and GNASSM are standing firm against the proposed ban, seeking instead to highlight their commitment to sustainable mining practices and their significant contributions to local economies.