NAPO Reaffirms NPP’s Commitment to Empowering Small-Scale Miners, Rejects Ban on Mining
Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as NAPO, has reiterated that a future New Patriotic Party (NPP) government will not impose a ban on small-scale mining. Speaking at a campaign event in the Manso Adubia constituency in the Ashanti Region on Tuesday, Dr. Opoku Prempeh, who is the NPP’s Vice Presidential candidate, assured party supporters and community members of the party’s commitment to promoting responsible mining practices.
He emphasized the importance of differentiating between responsible, regulated mining and illegal activities, or “galamsey,” which have caused severe environmental degradation and social harm. NAPO stated that the NPP’s strategy would focus on empowering small-scale miners to engage in sustainable practices that protect the environment while also expanding their operations for economic growth.
“A government led by Dr. Bawumia will promote mining. We cannot stop mining, but we will do so responsibly. We will not mine to destroy our water bodies and forests,” Dr. Opoku Prempeh asserted.
He also referenced promises made by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the NPP’s flagbearer, to support responsible mining initiatives that will benefit local communities and contribute to the overall economy. NAPO highlighted that equipment needed for responsible mining would be made available to Ghanaians under an NPP government.
His remarks come at a time of heightened tension, as Organised Labour prepares to embark on a nationwide strike starting Thursday, October 10, 2024. The strike, prompted by ongoing frustrations over the government’s handling of the illegal mining crisis, calls for stronger action against “galamsey” while supporting the formalisation of the small-scale mining sector.
Organised Labour has advocated for a balanced approach to protecting the environment while ensuring that legitimate miners can operate without fear of harassment or shutdowns. The crisis surrounding illegal mining, which has wreaked havoc on Ghana’s water bodies and ecosystems, remains a major political issue ahead of the 2024 elections.
Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s remarks signal the NPP’s commitment to promoting a mining policy that supports economic development and environmental sustainability.
