EASTERN REGIONAL MINISTER ENGAGES MINING COMPANIES TO CURB ILLEGAL MINING

Efforts to curb illegal mining and promote responsible mining practices in the Eastern Region have been intensified, with the Regional Minister, Mrs. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, leading a high-level engagement with stakeholders in the sector. The two-day meeting, organized by the Eastern Regional Coordinating Council in collaboration with the Minerals Commission and other regulatory bodies, convened both large-scale and small-scale mining companies on the 13th and 14th of March 2025 in Koforidua and Kade, respectively, to address critical issues affecting the industry.

The engagement focused on addressing the devastating impact of illegal mining (galamsey), ensuring compliance with mining regulations, and promoting sustainable mining practices. It also provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss challenges confronting the industry and explore collaborative solutions.
Speaking at the meeting, the Regional Minister underscored the urgency of tackling illegal mining, which has led to environmental degradation, the destruction of water bodies, and a rise in mining-related fatalities. She emphasized that while responsible mining could contribute to economic growth, its reckless execution posed a severe threat to the region’s natural resources and livelihoods.

Mining companies, both large and small, were reminded of their responsibilities in ensuring that their operations adhered to environmental and safety regulations. The Minister expressed concern over reports of some legally operating miners failing to reclaim mined-out lands, stressing that such negligence would not be tolerated. She warned that mining firms tha2t flouted these regulations risked losing their licenses.
A warning was also issued to illegal miners operating in forest reserves and water bodies, urging them to desist from their activities immediately or face severe consequences. Mrs. Awatey reiterated that under the President Mahama-led government, no galamsey activities would be tolerated, and the Eastern Regional Anti-Galamsey Task Force was fully prepared to take decisive action against offenders.

The discussions highlighted key issues such as regulatory compliance, environmental sustainability, health and safety measures, and the role of legal mining entities in combating galamsey. Mining operators were urged to take an active role in reporting illegal activities within their jurisdictions.
The meeting brought together representatives from the Minerals Commission, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Anti-Galamsey Task Force, and other key stakeholders. Participants acknowledged the importance of continued engagements to strengthen enforcement and promote responsible mining practices across the region.
The Eastern Regional Minister expressed optimism that these discussions would lead to a renewed commitment from all stakeholders, ensuring that mining operations in the region align with legal and ethical standards while protecting the environment for future generations.