Wassa Akropong (W/R) Jan.29 GNA- Mr. Anthony Evans Amoah, Western Regional Minister, at the weekend reminded Ghanaians that it was illegal to carry out mining activities in the country without licence.

He explained that "galamsey" mining was unlawful because those engaging in it did not acquire licences and were operating in concessions belonging to registered mining companies.

Mr. Amoah was reacting to a suggestion that "galamsey" mining be made a Presidential Special Initiative (PSI), at the Peoples' Assembly at Wassa Akropong, in the Wasa Amenfi East District.

He said no government anywhere in the world would support illegal mining and advised prospective miners to obtain licence from the Ghana Minerals Commission.

Mr Amoah said only six small-scale mining companies in the region have obtained licences after the eviction of illegal miners from concessions belonging to mining companies.

He gave the assurance that the government would continue to undertake development projects in the district to improve the standards of living of the people.

On the poor state of roads in the region, Mr Amoah said efforts were being made by the government to improve the road network. Mr. Kwesi Blay, Deputy Regional Minister, said the Ghana Highways Authority would ban the transportation of bauxite by road in the region from March this year.

He said the measure was to enable contractors work on roads in Awaso, which have been damaged by heavy-duty trucks.

Miss Doris Oduro, District Chief Executive, noted that illegal mining was a major problem facing the district, saying "galamsey" operators have invaded the area.

She noted that illegal mining was negatively affecting the environment and the development of children, adding that some of them have vacated the classroom and joined "galamsey" operators to make quick money. Miss Oduro said all efforts to get the illegal miners to regularise their activities to enable them operate within the demarcated small scale mining zone have proved futile.
Mr. Joseph Boahen Aidoo, Member of Parliament for Wassa Amenfi East, said the government with support from the World Bank would implement an expanded electrification programme for rural communities.