Pressure is mounting on the government to relieve the Chief Executive Officer of the Mineral Commission, Martin Kwaku Ayisi, of his position.

The National Concerned Small Scale Miners Association, Ghana (NCSSMAG) believes the Commission’s actions and inactions have contributed to land and water degradation.

According to a statement by the President of the Association, Michael Kwadwo Peprah, under the administration of Mr. Ayisi, the Commission has failed to proffer the right solutions to the government in the fight against illegal mining.

He says reforms at the Minerals Commission are important in the fight against illegal mining.

Below is the full press statement.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

National Concerned Small Scale Miners Association Calls for Dismissal of Minerals Commission CEO

The National Concerned Small Scale Miners Association, Ghana (NCSSMAG), led by its President, Mr. Michael Kwadwo Peprah, is calling on His Excellency John Dramani Mahama to immediately relieve Mr. Martin Kwaku Ayisi of his duties as Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission.

The Association believes that Mr. Ayisi has failed to demonstrate the commitment required to align with the government’s vision to combat illegal mining and promote responsible small-scale mining.

His actions and leadership, particularly in granting leases that allow mining in forest reserves and river bodies, directly contradict the environmental and regulatory reforms the government seeks to implement.

Under his tenure, the Minerals Commission has repeated practices reminiscent of the previous administration practices that led to severe pollution of water bodies and degradation of the environment.

These actions undermine the progress being made in reforming the small-scale mining sector.

As key stakeholders in Ghana's mining industry, we assert that retaining Mr. Ayisi as CEO poses a significant threat to the government's efforts to promote sustainable and responsible small-scale mining.

We urge the government to begin its restructuring efforts at the Minerals Commission by appointing new leadership that reflects the renewed national agenda.

It is imperative that the Commission is led by individuals who prioritize environmental protection, regulatory compliance, and the responsible empowerment of small-scale miners.

Signed:

Michael Kwadwo Peprah

President

National Concerned Small Scale Miners Association, Ghana