The Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners (GNASSM) has partnered with the Government of Ghana to reclaim abandoned mining pits and promote responsible and sustainable small-scale mining practices across the Ashanti Region.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council, seeks to ensure that mined lands are restored to their natural state while reducing the risk of environmental degradation and accidents associated with open pits.
The maiden orientation for small-scale miners was held on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at the Miklin Hotel in Kumasi. It brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Minerals Development Fund, National Security, National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), and the Minerals Commission.
Addressing participants, the Presidential Staffer in Charge of Political Business at the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council, Mr. Yaw Isham Bonsu, admitted the devastating effects of illegal mining on forests and water bodies.
He revealed that a committee led by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, and supported by the Minerals Development Fund, has vetted a number of small-scale miners to begin a massive land reclamation exercise.
“The destruction caused by galamsey has been enormous, but this partnership gives us hope. The committee, under the leadership of the Regional Minister, has vetted credible miners who will help cover all open pits and plant trees to restore nature,” Mr. Bonsu said.
He further explained that the miners, after approval, would be granted permits to reclaim the lands using their own equipment, while the Coordinating Council would support them with fuel. “This approach gives ownership of the project to the miners themselves, ensuring sustainability,” he added.
The Chairman of the Ashanti Regional Council of Elders for Small-Scale Miners, Alhaji Musa Osman, praised the government for its commitment to sustainable mining. He said, “This initiative is commendable. It will mark the beginning of the end of the fight against illegal mining. I urge all small-scale miners to ensure that every pit is properly covered after extracting gold.”
Another miner, Mr. Anthony Osei Kwame, also expressed readiness to support the project despite its challenges. “Although the work isn’t easy, we are prepared to reclaim all the lands and regain the trust people have in small-scale miners,” he stated.
The collaboration between GNASSM and the government is expected to transform mining communities in the Ashanti Region, ensuring environmental restoration, improved safety, and sustainable livelihoods for miners.
Story by: Isaac Clottey
