The newly elected Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Bernard Baidoo, has declared that while mining remains an inseparable part of the constituency’s identity, it must be conducted within the bounds of the law.
Speaking on JoyNews’ The Pulse on Wednesday, Mr. Baidoo, who is also a lawyer, underscored the need to formalise small-scale mining activities in Akwatia to safeguard both livelihoods and the environment.
“As for mining, we cannot stop mining in Akwatia; that should be made clear. Because that is what makes Akwatia what it is,” he stated. “But we will not do illegal mining. That is what we should fight and make sure the people do the mining, but in a very lawful way.”
He acknowledged the economic hardships facing residents, many of whom depend on mining for survival, stressing that halting the activity altogether would be impractical and detrimental.
Mr. Baidoo argued that the solution lies in reintroducing structured mining schemes that would allow community groups to operate legally under government supervision. Such arrangements, he explained, would ensure environmental safeguards and bring economic benefits to both miners and the nation.
“This issue of bringing people together and giving them concessions regulated and under a certain scheme should be brought back,” he proposed.
The Akwatia constituency, historically known for its rich diamond deposits, has long battled the challenges of illegal mining, or galamsey, which has devastated farmlands and water bodies. Mr. Baidoo’s remarks add to ongoing national conversations about balancing mining-driven economic survival with environmental protection and lawful governance.
Source – My News Ghana
