Small scale miners have been advised to adopt modern techniques and technology to improve their operations and minimize environmental degradation.
Nana Abena Apea, Tufuhene of Prestea-Himan said this at the election of new national executives of the Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners (GNASSM) at Tarkwa on Tuesday.
She said mining is a lucrative business and increasing negative publicity about environmental degradation by galamsey operators was making it difficult for society to differentiate between licensed small scale miners and galamsey operators.
Nana Apea noted that licensed small scale operators must liaise with the relevant institutions of state and the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) to enable them to acquire modern equipments and techniques for their operations.
She advised them to consult mining graduates to help them harness their investments and also make their operations safer and environmentally friendly.
“Licensed operators must adopt a positive and comprehensive reclamation programme to make mined out areas usable for both farming and residential purposes”, she stressed.
Nana Apea urged licensed small scale operators to constantly interact with their host communities and chiefs to avoid conflicts in their operational areas.
Mr Collins Osei Kissi, was elected President with 30 votes to defeat Mr Philip Akuffo, who received seven votes.
The General Secretary position went to Mr Rivers Kwofie, who polled 24 votes against Kojo Peters.
Madam Janet Osei Kissi defeated four others and took the Treasurer position while the position of Public Relations Officer went to Francis Opoku, with Elliot Larmie being elected the Technical Officer.