John Dramani Mahama, the Flagbearer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has pledged to introduce sustainable mining practices aimed at addressing the environmental damage caused by illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.
Speaking to supporters in Akrokkeri, Fomena Constituency, during his campaign tour in the Ashanti Region, Mahama outlined his commitment to promoting responsible mining that balances economic benefits with environmental preservation.
Mahama acknowledged the importance of small-scale mining to local economies, noting that it provides employment to many Ghanaians.
However, he also recognised that the lack of proper regulation has led to severe environmental issues, such as deforestation and water contamination.
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The former president assured both miners and communities that his government would implement policies that prioritize both the protection of natural resources and the livelihoods of miners.
“We will work towards ensuring that mining activities contribute positively to the economy without compromising the future of our environment,” Mahama stated.
He also emphasized that sustainable mining would benefit not only the ecosystem but also the long-term viability of the mining industry.
Mahama expressed his commitment to collaborating with key stakeholders to create a framework for responsible mining practices that would allow affected communities to benefit significantly from the sector.
Mahama appealed to Ghanaians to support efforts aimed at restoring the environment and building a more sustainable future for the mining industry.
“In Adansi and beyond, where small-scale mining is deeply valued, the NDC will bring policies that ensure the land is preserved for future generations,” he concluded.