The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has rejected a proposal by former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo to suspend all mining activities in Ghana. Justice Akuffo made the call to curb environmental destruction and water pollution caused by illegal mining, known as galamsey.
The Ministry agreed that her concerns are valid but said stopping all mining would hurt the economy. It explained that mining plays a key role in job creation and national development.
The Ministry’s Media Relations Officer, Paa Kwesi Schandorf, said the government shares Justice Akuffo’s concerns but cannot shut down the entire industry.
“Her suggestion comes from a good place,” Mr. Schandorf said. “She is worried about the environment, but mining supports our economy. The government is fighting illegal mining, not legal operations.”
He noted that the country’s mining laws allow responsible mining. The government, he said, will continue to enforce these laws and punish offenders.
Mr. Schandorf added that the Ministry remains committed to protecting the environment while promoting safe and legal mining practices that benefit the nation.
