The Western North Regional Association of Small-Scale Miners has urged the government not to succumb to pressure from civil society organisations and impose an outright ban on all forms of small-scale mining activities across the country.

According to the Public Relations Officer of the Association, Kwame Asare, all members of the group strictly adhere to mining regulations and should not be made to bear the consequences of illegal mining operations.

Their demands come in response to growing calls on the government to halt small-scale mining operations in the country temporarily.

The stakeholders argued that the menace, also known as galamsey, is destroying the environment, leaving nothing for the next generation.

However, addressing the media, the Western North Regional Association of Small-Scale Miners disputed these claims.

They explained that while the water bodies have been polluted by illegal activities, they strictly adhere to the Minerals Act and carry out responsible mining.

• Read also: We must stop this irresponsible mining urgently – Water Resources Commission

Mr Asare said mining is their livelihood, and imposing a ban would mean they can no longer provide for their families.

He appealed that, at the very least, the ban should be considered after the Christmas festivities.