Ken Ashigbey, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, has encouraged the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) to improve its traceability procedures to ensure that gold produced thru unlawful mining does not enter the regular markets.Ghana Tourism Promotion
Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Thursday, August 6, he emphasized the importance of robust traceability mechanisms in the battle against illegal mining, stating that GoldBod plays an important role in preventing the purchase of gold from illegal sources.
“I believe it is also taking too long for us to resolve our traceability issues at home. He hopes that the Gold Board would take action to prevent the purchase of gold from illegitimate sources.
Mr Ashigbey was also concerned about the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources’ inability to effectively combat illegal mining due to inadequate resources.
The Ministry needs more logistical and financial support to adequately carry out its duty, despite ongoing government efforts to combat the threat.
“We are not seeing the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources receive the resources it requires to carry out its mandate. That is not the case, and we must investigate if we are to address the issue,” he remarked.
Beyond funding, the Chamber of Mines CEO emphasized the importance of stronger enforcement against persons involved in illegal mining, stating that the lack of visible punishments weakens attempts to reduce the practice.
“We cannot let people who are clearly involved in unlawful mining going unpunished. The time has come for the media to publicize some of these names and inquire as to what is happening to these people, so that everyone understands there are consequences for doing the wrong thing,” he continued.
Ken Ashigbey asked authorities to find a balance between ensuring that legitimate mining businesses can operate properly and stepping up measures to protect the country’s water bodies and natural resources from the damaging impacts of unlawful mining.
His words came a year after the helicopter disaster in Adansi Asokwa, Ashanti Region, which killed eight individuals, including two ministers of state, while on an official mission to combat illegal
