Miners in Tarkwa, a town known for its rich mineral resources in Ghana’s Western Region, have called on the government to resist growing demands for a blanket ban on mining operations. The appeal comes amid increasing pressure from environmental groups and some members of the public who are concerned about the environmental damage caused by illegal mining, also known as “galamsey.”

The Tarkwa miners argue that while illegal mining has indeed led to severe environmental consequences, particularly in terms of water pollution and land degradation, a blanket ban on all mining activities would unfairly punish legal, small-scale miners who follow proper regulations. They believe that such a broad approach would have devastating effects on the livelihoods of those who depend on mining for their income, including thousands of families in the region.

Speaking on behalf of the local miners, some community leaders stressed that mining is a key source of employment in Tarkwa and other mining communities, and any ban would cause significant economic hardship. They have urged the government to focus on distinguishing between legal and illegal operations rather than implementing an across-the-board ban.

The miners also highlighted their willingness to cooperate with authorities to ensure responsible mining practices are adhered to. They called for stronger enforcement of existing mining regulations and the introduction of more comprehensive policies that can effectively combat illegal mining without harming those who are complying with the law.

Local miners further emphasized that mining, when done responsibly, contributes significantly to the country’s economy through job creation and revenue generation. They called on the government to invest more in monitoring and regulating the sector instead of resorting to blanket bans, which they argue could drive more people into illegal mining due to lack of alternatives.

The call from Tarkwa’s mining community comes at a time when the government is facing increasing pressure to take drastic action against illegal mining, which has been blamed for the destruction of farmlands, water bodies, and forests in parts of the country. However, the miners believe that a targeted approach that focuses on eliminating illegal activities, while supporting legal miners, would be more effective in balancing economic interests with environmental concerns.