Lawyer Martin Kpebu Explains Why Formalising Artisanal Mining Matters

Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has expressed support for the government’s efforts to formalise artisanal and small-scale mining, describing the initiative as an important step towards addressing challenges within Ghana’s mining sector.

Kpebu urged Ghanaians to support the Ghana Gold Board, popularly known as GoldBod, as it works to bring greater organisation and accountability to the activities of small-scale miners.

“Formalisation is a good idea and the way forward. Let’s all come on board and support GoldBod in this effort,” he said.

His comments add to the ongoing national discussion about how Ghana can regulate artisanal mining while protecting the environment and ensuring that the country benefits from its mineral resources.

GoldBod was established to strengthen the gold trading framework, particularly by organising the buying, selling and export of gold produced by the small-scale mining sector. Its activities are also expected to improve traceability and reduce opportunities for illegal gold trading.

Formalisation is an important part of efforts to address the difficulties associated with informal mining operations. When miners operate outside established regulatory structures, authorities can face challenges monitoring their activities, enforcing environmental standards and ensuring that gold transactions are properly documented.

Bringing miners into a recognised system can help improve oversight, encourage responsible mining practices and provide a clearer framework for their operations. It can also help authorities identify those operating legally and take action against activities that violate the law.

Kpebu’s appeal is therefore centred on the need for collective support rather than leaving the responsibility for reform entirely to GoldBod. The success of formalisation efforts will depend on the willingness of miners, industry stakeholders and relevant institutions to participate in the process.

His endorsement comes amid continuing concerns about illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, which has contributed to environmental degradation and pollution of water bodies in several parts of Ghana.

Although formalisation alone may not resolve every challenge in the sector, Kpebu’s remarks underline its potential role in improving regulation and accountability.

He believes Ghanaians should support the initiative as the country works towards a more organised artisanal mining industry.

Source: https://x.com/tv3_ghana/status/2116926064111112498?s=46

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