Accra: Mr Sam Jonah, Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast, has called for the active involvement of traditional leaders and local communities in Ghana's fight against illegal mining, commonly referred to as 'galamsey.' During a discussion with students of Wisconsin University in Accra, Mr Jonah emphasized the importance of including chiefs and community leaders in the decision-making process when granting mining rights, as they directly experience the consequences of environmental degradation.

According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Jonah stated that no traditional leader wants to see the destruction of rivers and forests without having the authority to prevent it. He pointed out the disconnect between the issuance of mining licenses in Accra and the lack of control on the ground, stemming from the exclusion of chiefs from these crucial decisions. Mr Jonah criticized the enforcement of existing mining laws in Ghana, citing inadequate implementation and the sidelining of communities and traditional leaders as significant issues.

He further addressed the socio-economic factors contributing to the illegal mining problem, noting that approximately five million Ghanaians are involved in small-scale mining due to insufficient job opportunities in the economy. The temptation of gold, valued at thousands of dollars per ounce, proves difficult to resist for many individuals seeking livelihoods. Mr Jonah argued that without providing alternative employment options and empowering traditional leaders to regulate mining activities, efforts to combat illegal mining would remain ineffective.

Illegal mining continues to pose a significant environmental challenge in Ghana, leading to the destruction of farmlands, river pollution, and deforestation, despite various government interventions. A recent scientific study highlighted the public health risks associated with mercury contamination in food items due to illegal mining activities.

Mr Jonah urged African nations to chart their own development paths based on their strengths rather than imitating the development models of other countries. He encouraged the youth to embrace technology while ensuring that it does not replace their creativity. He advised the students to design their future and draw inspiration from others while carving their own unique path.