Bosomefreho DCE orders small-scale miners to submit documentation by next week
The District Chief Executive of Bosomefreho has directed all small-scale miners operating within the district to submit valid mining documentation by next week. The order aims to identify licensed operators and weed out illegal mining activities that threaten the environment and local livelihoods.
According to the directive, miners without approved permits or those unable to provide valid proof of license risk having their operations shut down and licenses revoked. The move forms part of a broader effort by government and local authorities to sanitize mining operations in the region and ensure environmental compliance.
The DCE’s call follows a nationwide push requiring small-scale mining license holders to legitimize their operations. Authorities have conducted audits and issued deadlines for miners to regularize their status. Many licences flagged for irregularities must now be validated or face revocation. This enforcement reflects growing concern over illegal mining, especially near water bodies and forest reserves.
Local leaders and traditional authorities have been urged to cooperate by providing accurate records and guiding miners through the compliance process. The DCE said the involvement of community stakeholders is vital to distinguishing legitimate small-scale mining from illegal galamsey activities.
Mining analysts welcomed the directive, arguing that it could reduce unregulated mining, protect natural resources and preserve riverine and forest ecosystems. They cautioned however that implementation must be transparent. Arbitrary shutdowns without fair assessments or support for legitimate miners may lead to economic hardship for communities dependent on artisanal mining.
For miners this directive presents both challenge and opportunity. Those with valid licences see this as a chance to affirm their legitimacy and continue operations legally. Others risk losing livelihoods if they fail to regularize on time. In response, some miner cooperatives have started mobilizing paperwork and engaging consultants to help prepare their documentation.
Environmental advocacy groups support the DCE’s decision but emphasize the need for consistent enforcement across regions. They also call on authorities to provide education on safe mining practices, reclamation and alternative livelihood opportunities for those displaced so that regulation does not lead to job loss or social unrest.
As the deadline approaches, all eyes are on the district administration to see if the directive will be enforced responsibly. The success of this compliance drive may shape Ghana’s broader strategy against illegal mining and set a precedent for other districts and regions tackling galamsey.
