The former Chief Executive of the Ghana Minerals Commission, Dr Toni Aubynn has advised government to devise a form of technology to fight illegal mining in the country.
According to him, using manpower or human presence to scare people from mining in water bodies and forest reserves is untenable.
Speaking at the 90th anniversary lectures of the Chamber in Kumasi, Dr Aubynn said government can only win the war on illegal mining when it embraces technology and other effective measures in monitoring the activity.
The illegal miners, Dr Aubynn said were still mining under the cover of darkness and disclosed they return to sites as soon as government’s Taskforce and recently the Operation Vanguard team leaves the scene.
PRESIDENT:
Addressing participants ahead of the lectures, Dr Kwame Addo Kufuor, President of the Chamber of Mines said the Chamber recognizes the need to explore linkages with other sectors to ensure the growth of the Mining Industry.
He also expressed the commitment of the Chamber to supporting indigenous manufacturing, services and supply companies to ensure effective collaboration for rapid growth.
Dr Kufuor touted the achievements of some of the member companies of the Chamber, adding that they have extensively helped to develop rural communities.
Some, he added have religiously paid royalties to government as well commit to carrying out vigorous social responsibility projects in areas they mine or conduct their activities.
CHIEF:
Representing the Asantehene at the function, the Adontehene of the Asante Kingdom chronicled the immense contribution of mining to the development of the country.
According to him, the industry has continued to provide jobs to the youth and ensured companies pay royalties to government to commence development projects across the country.
He urged the Chamber to do more to ensure mining is done in its cleanest forms to rid the country of the repercussions of bad practices.
He tasked the Chamber to explore avenues to train the locals in the proper way of mining so that gradually they can entice them from engaging in illegal mining.
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