Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, President of the National House of Chiefs, has rejected calls for a total ban on mining activities in Ghana.

The National House of Chiefs President is advocating instead for stronger regulations to promote responsible mining.

His stance comes as pressure mounts on government to address illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, which has led to severe environmental destruction.

Several groups, including the Ghana Medical Association(GMA) and Organised Labour, have called for either a ban on small-scale mining or the declaration of a state of emergency to combat the galamsey crisis.

Despite these demands, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II warned against such extreme measures, citing the economic importance of mining.

"You all know I am against galamsey, and I will continue to fight against it, but that should not prevent Ghanaians from engaging in mining activities.

"Gold is for us, but the right methods should be used to mine it. That is why there is an institution like the Minerals Commission that is responsible for regulating these activities," he emphasised.

The chief stressed the need for a balanced approach that protects the environment while supporting job creation, especially for the youth.

He warned that a blanket ban on mining could result in widespread unemployment.

“We are pleading with those calling for the declaration of a state of emergency and those calling for a ban on mining to consider the benefits the nation gets from mining.

“If we stop mining, most of our youth will be pushed out of jobs," he added.

Instead of halting all mining operations, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II called on the government to strengthen regulatory oversight to ensure responsible mining practices.

He underscored the importance of institutions like the Minerals Commission in enforcing these regulations and safeguarding the country’s natural resources.

“As for the mining, we will do it, but we will do it responsibly,” the President of the House of Chiefs added.