The Deputy Minister-designate for Lands and Natural Resources, Yusif Sulemana, has strongly opposed the ban on small-scale mining.

Mr Sulemana argued that such a move would unjustly harm the livelihoods of millions of people.

Speaking during his vetting before the Appointment Committee on February 26, he explained that miners who have been granted licences to operate and are adhering to regulations should not face a ban.

“If they have been granted licences to operate and are not breaching those licences, I do not think they should be banned,” he said.

He further stressed the impact a ban would have, pointing out that over 3 million people depend on small-scale mining for their livelihood.

“If we ban them, we are simply saying that some people should not survive, as it is their livelihood,” he stated.

He made it clear that, as long as miners are not engaging in illegal activities, there is no justification for a complete ban.

“I do not think we should ban them completely if they are not doing anything untoward,” he concluded.