Dr. Anthony Aubynn, former CEO of the Minerals Commission and a member of the NDC Manifesto Committee, has described the government’s fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, as frustrating and ineffective.
Speaking on Atinka TV’s Abatour Fie show hosted by Paul Elorm Norsah, Dr. Aubynn criticized President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for lacking the political will to follow through on his bold declaration to fight galamsey, despite pledging to put his presidency on the line.
Dr. Aubynn explained that while small-scale mining is already regulated under Ghanaian law, the core issue lies in the enforcement of these laws.
He argued that completely banning small-scale mining is impractical, considering its significant contribution to the economy. According to him, gold exports account for about 40% of Ghana’s total exports, and the sector creates substantial employment opportunities, particularly in rural areas and even industries like fuel stations.
The NDC stalwart stressed that the solution to Ghana’s illegal mining crisis is not a ban on small-scale mining but rather strict enforcement of mining laws. He pointed out that government officials, including Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), have been implicated in illegal mining activities, undermining the fight. He referenced an MCE who publicly encouraged colleagues to engage in illegal mining, accusing the government of using the fight as a political tool to fund party activities.
Dr. Aubynn highlighted the NDC’s plan to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced technology to tackle illegal mining. He clarified former President John Mahama’s proposal to use AI in the fight against galamsey, explaining that AI goes beyond platforms like ChatGPT to include advanced robotic systems and tracking technologies.
“Under the NDC’s proposal, mining concessions and excavators would be fitted with trackers to monitor their activities. Any movement beyond designated boundaries would immediately trigger an alert to the Minerals Commission, enabling swift action against illegal operations” – He explained.
To streamline operations, Dr. Aubynn revealed that an NDC government would decentralize the licensing process for small-scale mining.
He also emphasized the importance of removing VAT on exploration activities to encourage mining companies to stay in Ghana, as their departure could result in significant economic losses.
Additionally, the NDC plans to repeal laws that permit mining in forest reserves. Dr. Aubynn warned concession holders in forest reserves that their licenses would be revoked, with the NDC prioritizing reforestation and the protection of water bodies.
Dr. Aubynn also debunked claims that President Mahama intends to ban small-scale mining entirely. Instead, he stated that the NDC would focus on training miners and implementing robust monitoring mechanisms to ensure compliance with environmental and operational standards.
Dr. Aubynn called for greater accountability in the fight against galamsey.
“When you grant a license, you must monitor the licensee’s activities,” – he said, emphasizing the need for thorough oversight and sustainable management of Ghana’s mining sector.
The NDC’s manifesto, he added, is committed to enforcing mining laws, decentralizing processes, and using technology to preserve the nation’s natural resources while ensuring the economic benefits of mining are maximized.
Ghana | Atinkaonline.com | Rosemary Mensah