Local communities can’t be stopped from mining; we can only regulate them – Small-scale miner

Daniel Appiah, an indigenous mining industry player, has shared his views on Ghana's economy. He believes it relies heavily on mineral extraction. Without mining, he argues, Ghana cannot survive.

Appiah stated, "Without mining, there is no Ghana." He emphasized the need for advanced technology in the industry. This would attract locals to participate in mining.

He noted that Ghana's mining sector has been vital for its economy. Appiah has spent 30 years in the local mining industry in Amenfi Central. He expressed concern about foreign access to mining communities over the past two decades.

He warned that pushing out local miners could harm livelihoods and the economy. Local miners contribute significantly to job creation and revenue generation. In contrast, large-scale miners are mostly foreigners.

In an interview, Appiah condemned illegal mining activities in forests and water bodies. He urged the government to reform the industry for better job creation and welfare for Ghanaians.

Ghana is currently Africa's second-largest gold producer after South Africa. The country has abundant mineral deposits that attract foreign investors.

Most large-scale mining companies operating in Ghana are foreign-owned. This dominance allows them to control the industry's performance and revenue generation.

Appiah believes this reliance on foreigners must change. He advocates for supporting small-scale miners who can contribute more effectively. "We must manage resource development responsibly," he said.

He highlighted his own business, employing over 60 workers with competitive wages. The highest-paid worker earns 6,000 Ghana cedis weekly while the lowest earns 1,500 cedis.

Appiah pointed out competition among large-scale foreign companies and small-scale local ones. Illegal operators also threaten farmland and livelihoods in the region.

He stressed the importance of protecting the industry by following regulations set by authorities. Three categories of miners influence how much gold leaves Ghana through sales and trading.

Appiah questioned how locals could be stopped from mining when foreigners do so freely. Historically, foreigners participated mainly in large-scale operations but have recently engaged in illegal activities as well.

He recalled a time before President John Dramani Mahama when illegal mining was rampant in forests and water bodies. Appiah believes everyone shares responsibility for this issue but sees hope with current government actions against illegal operators.

He supports efforts to sanitize the industry while advocating for local participation in legal mining activities. "Mining cannot be stopped," he asserted; reforms are necessary instead.

According to Appiah, locals have quietly led the sector since former President Jerry John Rawlings' time but face challenges from invading foreigners today.