The Member of parliament for Amansie West constituency in the Ashanti Region has initiated a program to combat irresponsible mining.
George Obeng Takyi is working to change illegal mining activities by adopting best practices to promote sustainable mining to protect the environment.
Speaking to JoyNews he said the operations of small-scale miners have often been detrimental to the environment and water bodies, although their contribution to revenue generation is significant.
Mr Obeng Takyi stated that streamlining the activities of the miners will help reduce destruction to the environment.
"This is why it has become imperative to mobilise stakeholders to find better ways to mine without destroying the environment and water bodies," he said.
The initiative would also address mining irregularities that cast negative light on the Manso area.
Experts say mercury contamination is a significant public health and environmental problem as miners continue to use due to it availability and affordability.
An estimated 37% of global mercury emission is attributed to artisanal and small-scale gold mining.
The effects of mercury emissions extend well beyond a mine’s catchment. It enters the atmosphere when it is sprayed, and returns to the ground in rain.
Mr. Takyi said that it important to address such an environmental pollutant. Participants at a stakeholders’ forum at Manso Nkwanta expressed excitement about the program.
Mr Takyi revealed he is highly impressed about contributions, and hope for change in the mining in the area.
Latest Stories
-
Political parties should plan for losses, not just wins – IGP advises
1 min -
524 Diasporan Africans granted Ghanaian citizenship in ceremony
3 mins -
Mahama urges Afram Plains North residents to avoid ‘skirt and blouse’ voting
5 mins -
Asantehene receives more 19th century gold ornament and regalia
12 mins -
Hohoe Ghana Blind Union organises training for members ahead of Election 2024
18 mins -
Alan Kyerematen reveals his future plans for Ghanaian Health professionals
19 mins -
AAIN empowers women and small enterprises in Upper East Region through SHINE project
20 mins -
Akufo-Addo leads nationwide commissioning of 80 educational projects
27 mins -
Ghana and Seychelles strengthen bilateral ties with focus on key sectors
58 mins -
National Elections Security Taskforce meets political party heads ahead of December elections
1 hour -
Samsung’s AI-powered innovations honored by Consumer Technology Association
1 hour -
Fugitive Zambian MP arrested in Zimbabwe – minister
2 hours -
Town council in Canada at standstill over refusal to take King’s oath
2 hours -
Trump picks Pam Bondi as attorney general after Matt Gaetz withdraws
2 hours -
Providing quality seeds to farmers is first step towards achieving food security in Ghana
2 hours