By: Franklin ASARE-DONKOH
A group of small-scale miners calling itself the National Concerned Small Scale Miners Association (NCSSMA), Ghana, has accused the government of targeted harassment and equipment seizures.
In a press statement issued and signed by its president, Mr Michael Kwadwo Peprah, the group raised concerns over what it describes as a systematic targeting of its members following the assumption of office by the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The association alleged in its statement that the government’s anti-galamsey task force has been engaged in unlawful activities, including the unwarranted seizure and destruction of excavators belonging to members, many of whom operate within the legal framework.
“In several instances, equipment has been forcibly taken from miners’ homes, where they were not in use, raising serious questions about the legitimacy of these actions. Harassment and destruction of legally acquired mining equipment are not sustainable solutions to the challenges facing the industry,” portions of the statement read.
Citing 2024 electioneering campaign promises by the then-opposition NDC, the miners urged the government to fulfil its promise of supporting and equipping small-scale miners with modern technology and skills to streamline their operations.
“Our demand is simple and reasonable: introduce reforms that will enable lawful, safe, and environmentally sound mining. We do not seek favouritism or protection for illegal operations. Instead, we advocate for a transparent, inclusive system that allows all legitimate actors in the sector to operate without fear or victimisation.
We urge the government to engage constructively with stakeholders in the small-scale mining industry and to prioritise collaboration over confrontation,” the statement read.
The group suggested that the current approach by the NDC-led administration risks repeating the failed anti-galamsey strategies adopted by the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP)-led government.
The mining sector, according to NCSSMA Ghana, remains vital to Ghana’s economic growth and, as such, its actors deserve to be treated with “fairness, respect, and legal protection.”
