Those calling for ban on mining must be careful – Nat’l House of Chiefs President

President of the National House of Chiefs, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, says calls for a total ban on mining should not be adhered to.

Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II says Ghana risks losing millions of dollars if mining is banned.

Speaking at the commissioning of the new Minerals Commission Office in the Western North Region, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II said calls for a declaration of a state of emergency are also untenable. "Please, those calling for a state of emergency and a ban on all forms of mining should be very careful.

Do they know what we get from mining?

We should ban it and what happens to our children?

They should come and stay home?

All we are calling for is responsible mining.

We are against illegal mining.

We want responsible mining.

Many associations and unions have called on the government to place a ban on all mining activities and declare a state of emergency against illegal mining.

Organised Labour has also given the government up to the end of September to declare a state of emergency against mining and a subsequent ban or it embarks on a nationwide series of strikes.

Channel One TV also organised a six-hour campaign titled 'I Stand Against Galamsey' on Monday, September 16, to amplify those voices.