The Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners (GNASSM) is taking a firm stance against illegal mining, launching a nationwide registration of its members while simultaneously issuing a stern warning to those destroying water bodies and forests.
The initiative signals a commitment to cleaning up the sector and ensuring responsible mining practices.
National Communications Director Abdul Razak Alhassan explained that the registration aims to identify, guide, and protect members from engaging in illegal activities.
The collected data will enable the GNASSM leadership to categorize miners across the country, track new registrants, and effectively monitor their operations.
The registration’s Ashanti Regional chapter is expected to be completed within 21 days, covering all mining district areas.
This initiative coincides with a broader push across the region, beginning in the Amansie West zone, to distinguish between licensed and unlicensed miners and promote a more regulated sector.
But the message was even sharper from Michael Adu Gyamfi, General Secretary of the GNASSM Ashanti Chapter.
“We will deal severely with those who continue to destroy our water bodies and forest reserves,” Adu Gyamfi declared. He strongly urged all members to participate in the registration exercise to avoid facing severe repercussions down the line.
This direct warning underscores the association’s determination to hold its members accountable.
During the launch in Antoakrom, Alhassan also emphasized the registration’s role in differentiating between licensed operators, aspiring miners seeking land, and existing contributors to the sector.
He acknowledged challenges around licensing, where larger companies sometimes have easier access than smaller miners, and reaffirmed GNASSM’s commitment to advocating for fairness since 1989.
Adding his support, Amansie West Zone Chairman Joseph Mensah encouraged local miners to register, outlining plans to visit communities like Moseaso, Manso Nkwanta, and Mpatuam.
The registration drive is receiving positive feedback, with members praising its potential to empower responsible miners and clean up the industry. GNASSM aims to strengthen its membership base, promote sustainable practices, and enforce stricter regulations on illegal mining activities across Ghana.
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