As Ghana grapples with the devastating impact of illegal mining on its water resources, Dr. Anthony Aubynn, former Minerals Commissioner and Chairman of the Mining Committee for John Mahama’s campaign, has revealed that the incoming administration will prioritize the enforcement of laws against this practice.
Speaking on GHOne TV , Dr. Aubynn emphasized the NDC’s commitment to preventing illegal mining on water bodies.
“We were trying to stop mining on water bodies completely, because the law doesn’t allow that to happen; the law doesn’t allow mining on water bodies,” he explained.
Dr. Aubynn indicated that the next John Mahama led administration will ensure strict enforcement of existing laws, saying “John Mahama is going to enforce that law 100%.”
He also revealed that Mahama has assembled a team to develop a comprehensive approach to tackling the issue, which was refined after consultations with stakeholders in 2020.
Although Mahama’s previous efforts did not yield the desired outcome, Dr. Aubynn expressed confidence that this time around, the administration will get it right.
The pledge to crack down on illegal mining on water bodies is a significant one, given the devastating impact it has on Ghana’s environment and water resources.
Studies have shown that illegal mining has compromised the quality and quantity of many water bodies in Ghana, with contaminants like mercury, zinc, and cyanide posing serious health risks to communities.
The incoming administration’s commitment to enforcing the law and protecting the environment will be closely watched by Ghanaians and environmentalists alike.
As the incoming administration prepares to take office, it remains to be seen whether they will be able to deliver on their pledge to protect Ghana’s water resources.
The issue of illegal mining on water bodies is a complex one, requiring a multi-faceted approach that involves not just law enforcement but also community engagement, education, and economic empowerment.
The incoming administration’s commitment to tackling this issue will require careful planning, coordination, and resources.
Nevertheless, Dr. Aubynn’s statement offers a glimmer of hope that Ghana may finally be turning the corner in its fight against illegal mining.