The Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners (GNASSM) has categorically refuted claims associating the organization with Kojo Peprah, an individual apprehended by the Ghana Police Service’s Special Unit for alleged interference with an anti-illegal mining operation. The association released a statement on July 11, 2025, clarifying that Mr. Peprah holds no membership, chairmanship, or any other official position within GNASSM. The statement aimed to rectify what the association termed “false media reports” linking Mr. Peprah’s arrest to their organization. The association underscored its commitment to responsible mining practices and its unwavering support for the government’s efforts to combat illegal mining. This public clarification seeks to distance GNASSM from the controversy surrounding Mr. Peprah’s actions and reaffirm the association’s dedication to sustainable and legal mining operations.
The incident prompting GNASSM’s response unfolded on July 10, 2025, within the Desiri Forest Reserve in the Ahafo Ano North District. A police task force, engaged in an operation targeting illegal mining activities, apprehended Mr. Peprah. Following the arrest, reports surfaced suggesting Mr. Peprah’s affiliation with the small-scale miners’ association, a narrative GNASSM swiftly and unequivocally rejected. In their official statement, signed by General Secretary Godwin Nickleson Amark, GNASSM emphasized the distinct and established structure of their leadership, explicitly stating that Mr. Peprah has never held any official capacity within their organization. The incident highlights the complexities and potential for misinformation surrounding the issue of illegal mining in Ghana, prompting GNASSM to call for accurate reporting and public discourse.
GNASSM’s emphasis on responsible and sustainable mining practices reflects their proactive stance against illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as “galamsey” in Ghana. Their official statement reiterated their ongoing collaboration with government authorities and security agencies in the fight against this pervasive issue. The association views the eradication of illegal mining as a shared national responsibility, urging all stakeholders to support government-led initiatives aimed at addressing this environmental and economic challenge. By publicly distancing themselves from individuals engaging in illegal activities, GNASSM reinforces its commitment to upholding ethical and legal mining practices within the small-scale mining sector.
The association’s call for accurate reporting and fact-checking underscores the importance of responsible journalism, particularly in addressing sensitive issues like illegal mining. GNASSM specifically requested media outlets to verify information before disseminating it to the public, recognizing the potential for misinformation to exacerbate the challenges surrounding this complex issue. They provided contact details for their National Director of Communications, Abdul-Razak Alhassan, encouraging media outlets to reach out for clarification and accurate information. This proactive approach to communication reinforces GNASSM’s commitment to transparency and their willingness to engage in constructive dialogue with the media.
GNASSM’s statement comes at a crucial juncture in Ghana’s ongoing battle against illegal mining. The government has intensified its crackdown on these illicit operations amid growing concerns about the devastating environmental consequences, including deforestation, water pollution, and ecosystem degradation. The violation of mining regulations also represents a significant economic concern, undermining legitimate mining operations and depriving the nation of much-needed revenue. GNASSM’s public declaration aligns with the government’s efforts to regulate the mining sector and promote sustainable practices, underscoring the collaborative approach required to address this multifaceted issue.
In conclusion, the Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners’ swift and unequivocal response to the arrest of Kojo Peprah demonstrates their unwavering commitment to responsible mining practices and their active participation in the fight against illegal mining. Their public disavowal of any affiliation with Mr. Peprah serves to distinguish the association from those engaged in illicit activities and reinforces their dedication to sustainable and legal mining operations. Furthermore, their call for responsible journalism and accurate reporting highlights the importance of collaborative efforts between stakeholders, including the media, government agencies, and mining associations, in tackling the complex challenges posed by illegal mining in Ghana. GNASSM’s proactive approach to communication and their commitment to transparency contribute to the ongoing national dialogue surrounding this critical issue, ultimately supporting the government’s efforts to promote a more sustainable and responsible mining sector.
