Ghana’s fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, will only succeed if traditional leaders take the lead in enforcing mining regulations, according to the President of the National Concerned Small Scale Miners Association of Ghana, Michael Kwadwo.

Speaking on Class 91.3 FM's morning show hosted by Kwame Dwumour Agyemang, Mr. Peprah said chiefs and local custodians of lands are not just community leaders but active participants and, in many cases, beneficiaries of mining activities in their areas. 

He believes their involvement makes them critical players in either curbing or perpetuating illegal mining.

“Even if you have a licence, you cannot mine without having a social responsibility agreement with the community and the chiefs are the heads of these communities,” he said. 

Mr. Peprah explained that before a licence is granted, there is a 21-day public notice period during which traditional leaders and residents can raise objections.

According to him, these leaders are often aware of ongoing illegal mining activities in their areas and have the power to put a stop to it. 

Ghana’s small-scale mining sector remains a major contributor to rural employment and gold production, but its unregulated side galamsey has caused severe environmental damage to rivers, forests, and farmlands.