Government halts Community Mining Scheme over Galamsey concerns-Minister

The government has officially suspended the Community Mining Scheme (CMS), citing its resemblance to illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey. The decision follows findings that many of the operations lacked community involvement and proper oversight.

Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, announced the suspension during a press engagement in Accra. He revealed that a recent report showed traditional authorities and local communities were often unaware of CMS operations in their areas.

In a briefing with editors and senior journalists, Mr. Buah emphasized that the CMS in its current form was virtually indistinguishable from illegal mining. The government, he said, plans to restructure the initiative into a more community-owned and regulated system by mid-2025.

“All current CMS licenses have been put on hold,” he stated. “The findings show that these schemes mirror illegal small-scale mining. Moving forward, we will establish Small-Scale Community Cooperatives that will include chiefs, youth, and stakeholders from the start.”

Under the reformed system, communities will be required to form cooperatives, register businesses, and open official accounts. A portion of the revenue will be dedicated to local development projects. Only those cooperatives that meet regulatory standards will receive government support and infrastructure assistance.

Mr. Buah also outlined broader reforms in the small-scale mining license process. Going forward, applications will begin at the district level, with input from chiefs and local authorities before advancing to the Minerals Commission.

He mentioned additional measures including enhanced use of technology, a reshuffling of district police leadership, and a unified, apolitical front in combating illegal mining.

He praised the media for its role in raising awareness and urged continued support in protecting forests, water bodies, and public health. He also cited alarming figures—288 forest reserves affected, with 44 completely destroyed—and recent attacks on forest guards, stressing the need for vigilance.

“The stakes are high,” the Minister declared. “If I can’t put myself on the line in this fight against galamsey, then we have no future.”