The leadership of the Small-Scale Mining Association in Upper Denkyira West District has pledged to support environmental restoration efforts by reclaiming all mining pits left open in the area.
According to them, the effort aims to improve safety and prevent accidents caused by uncovered sites.
Nearly a month ago, the association met with the District Chief Executive and the local police service to reinforce their commitment.
Mr. Azare Sylvester, the organizer of the association, emphasized that mining has been ongoing for years, and now is the time to work hand-in-hand with government to protect communities and the land.
Mr. Kwabina Asare, Member of the executive who has already begun restoring mined areas, urged the government to decentralize the fight against illegal mining.
He proposed that District and Municipal Assemblies be empowered to form special task forces comprising local police who are better positioned to identify those responsible for illegal pits and ensure they are reclaimed. He argued that relying on national deployments of police and soldiers is costly and less efficient.
Meanwhile, youth and market women in Diaso have appealed to the government to provide employment opportunities through regulated mining companies, especially as the clampdown on illegal mining also known as galamsey continues to make progress.
Story By: Atta Buabeng
