The newly elected Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Bernard Baidoo, has called for the formalisation and regulation of small-scale mining in the constituency, stressing that while mining is integral to Akwatia’s identity, illegal mining must not be tolerated.
Speaking on JoyNews’ The Pulse on Wednesday, Mr. Baidoo, a lawyer by profession, acknowledged the economic challenges faced by his constituents, many of whom rely on mining for their livelihoods.
“As I have said, they don’t have jobs. Personally, I’m a lawyer, and I understand this better,” he noted.
He emphasised that mining remains the backbone of the local economy, warning that attempts to completely halt it would be both impractical and detrimental to the people.
“As for mining, we cannot stop mining in Akwatia; that should be made clear. Because that is what makes Akwatia what it is,” he asserted.
However, Mr. Baidoo drew a sharp line between legitimate small-scale mining and the destructive practice of galamsey.
“We will not do illegal mining. That is what we should fight and make sure the people do the mining, but in a very lawful way,” he stated.
He further advocated for the reintroduction of structured mining schemes that would enable local groups to operate legally under government supervision with strict environmental safeguards.
“This issue of bringing people together and giving them concessions regulated and under a certain scheme should be brought back,” he proposed.
Source: Emmanuel Tetteh
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