A high-level national conference id underway in Kumasi to strengthen the role of local authorities in the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
The conference brought together regional ministers, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) from across the country, traditional leaders and other key stakeholders.
The President of the National House of Chiefs, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, led the delegation of traditional authorities at the meeting.
Discussions focused on empowering MMDCEs and local Assemblies to take direct responsibility for tackling illegal mining within their respective jurisdictions.
Participants emphasised the need to place local governance at the centre of the national response, with Assemblies given the authority and capacity to drive sustained action at the community level.
The conference resolved to strengthen the involvement of local authorities in addressing galamsey, with the aim of achieving meaningful and lasting results across affected communities.
The organisers expressed appreciation to the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, and the Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Dr Zanetor Rawlings, for their contributions to the conference.
Other stakeholders were also commended for their roles in making the meeting successful.
The conference forms part of efforts to strengthen coordination among local authorities, traditional leaders and other stakeholders in addressing illegal mining across the country.
