The Responsible Small-Scale Miners Association of Ghana has announced its intention to stage a protest on Friday, October 11, 2024, in response to Organised Labour’s call for a nationwide strike against small-scale mining.

The demonstration is set to take place through the principal streets of Accra, as members of the association voice their opposition to Organized Labour’s stance on the issue, which they believe unfairly targets their livelihood.

In a press statement addressed to the Inspector-General of Police, the association expressed concern over the planned strike, which is scheduled to begin on Thursday, October 10, 2024. Organized Labour, representing various unions and workers’ groups, is threatening to embark on industrial action as a means to pressure the government into tackling the problem of illegal mining, commonly known as “galamsey.”

The association argued that Organized Labour’s approach would not solve the longstanding issue of illegal mining. “We firmly believe that Organised Labour’s stance is not the solution to this century-long problem. What we need is a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of illegal mining,” the statement read.

The association emphasised that small-scale mining was a legal activity in Ghana under the Minerals and Mining Act 2006, Act 703, and that responsible miners should not be punished for the actions of a few recalcitrant illegal miners. “The wrongs of a recalcitrant few cannot be used to ban all other small-scale mining firms undertaking responsible mining,” the statement continued.

They also described Organised Labour’s call for a ban on small-scale mining as “counterproductive, politically motivated, and an attempt to shut down our source of livelihood.”

The association pointed out that galamsey had already been banned in Ghana, and any attempt to further ban legitimate small-scale mining would only frustrate those abiding by the law.

The upcoming protest will call on Organized Labour to reconsider its position, and work with stakeholders to develop more effective solutions to the challenges posed by illegal mining. “We urge them to desist from demonizing our trade and to support various stakeholders in fashioning out workable solutions to mitigate the threats associated with illegal mining,” the statement urged.

Responsible Small-Scale Miners Association, led by President Philip Bawah and General Secretary Mark Conduah, expressed hope for cooperation from the Ghana Police Service to ensure a peaceful demonstration.