The National Concerned Small Scale Miners Association, Ghana, has expressed deep concern over recent developments affecting their members across various mining communities in the country.
At a press conference in Kumasi, national President of the Association, Kwadwo Peprah drew public attention to what he believes is a systematic targeting of their members following the assumption of office by the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) in 2025.
“We have credible reports that the government’s anti-galamsey taskforce has been engaged in unlawful activities, including the unwarranted seizure and destruction of excavators belonging to our members many of whom operates 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,” Mr Peprah said.
He said the gold mining sector, particularly small-scale mining, contributed over 150 tonnes of gold in 2024 alone, a figure projected to rise in 2025.
“This sector remains vital to Ghana’s economic growth, and we believe its actors deserve to be treated with fairness, respect, and legal protection.
He cautioned that the current approach by the NDC administration risks repeating the failed anti-galamsey strategies of the previous NPP government. Harassment and destruction of legally acquired mining equipment are not sustainable solutions to the challenges facing the industry,”Mr Peprah stressed.
During the 2024 election campaign, the then-opposition NDC made a clear promise to support and equip small-scale miners with modern technology and skills to streamline our operations. He called on the government to honour that promise by introducing standard technological reforms and capacity-building initiatives.
“Such reforms should aim at empowering small-scale miners to operate responsibly, adhere to regulations, and contribute to environmental sustainability. 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,” he stated.
