Professor of Urban Geography at the University of Ghana, Prof. Martin Oteng Ababio, has underscored the urgent need for a critical reassessment of the mining industry in Ghana.
His remarks, which shed light on the evolving dynamics of the sector, highlighted three main reasons for this imperative.
Prof. Ababio pointed out the youthfulness of the country, which has played a significant role in shaping the current mining landscape. He noted that finance has been a foundational aspect for over 2000 years however, the mining industry has witnessed considerable transformation in recent times, largely due to external influences.
Speaking on behalf of the NDC’s presidential candidate at the CSIR presidential dialogue on Science, Technology and Innovation, he emphasized the profound changes in the mining industry itself.
He said traditional practices have morphed, with local community members once engaged in small-scale operations now being replaced by foreign investors.
He said the scene has transitioned from ordinary citizens searching for gold to large-scale investors, including Chinese and Nigerian stakeholders, capitalizing on the industry’s potential. This shift he said has altered the power dynamics within communities, where those once merely striving for survival now find themselves contending with powerful economic players.
Prof. Ababio highlighted the technological advancements that have significantly impacted mining practices. The introduction of modern machinery, such as excavators, has changed how gold is extracted, leading to both increased efficiency and ecological consequences. The current practices, including mining within riverbanks and redirecting water channels, pose serious environmental threats, exacerbating the challenges faced by local communities.
He expressed concern that despite the evolving landscape, regulatory frameworks have lagged behind. He noted that the Mining Act of 2012 was merely reiterated in 2023, without addressing the pressing issues that have emerged over the years.
He urged stakeholders to rethink their approach and prioritize sustainable practices to mitigate the negative impacts of mining activities.
To address these challenges, Professor Ababio called for the identification of accessible areas for mining and urged a collective effort to ensure responsible extraction methods. He stressed that without proactive measures, the mining sector risks further jeopardizing both the environment and the livelihoods of the communities it touches.
As Ghana navigates the complexities of its mining industry, the insights from Professor Ababio serve as a clarion call for collaboration among stakeholders, emphasizing the need for innovation, regulation, and community engagement to foster a sustainable future for all.