The Nadowli-Kaleo District in the Upper West Region is becoming notorious for illegal small scale mining.

Communities such as Nanga, Vuuyiri, Kunche and the Charikpong enclaves have been noted for their involvement in the operations, popularly called galamsey.

Dr Ephraim Avea Nsoh, Regional Minister who expressed worry about the situation, warned that the nationwide ban on the illicit business had been accorded Presidential accent and must therefore not be allowed to thrive.

Dr Nsoh, who made this known when he addressed the second ordinary meeting of the Nadowli-Kaleo District Assembly, noted that illegal mining destroys the environment, pollutes water sources and weakens human resources.

The Regional Minister, who is also the Acting District Chief Executive for the district, appealed to the assembly to help address the issue.

He said President John Dramani Mahama had instructed the metropolitan, municipal and district assemblies to constitute committees on small scale mining.

These committees, he said would help sensitise the people on the negative effects of galamsey and strive to eliminate it.

Mr Andrew Kpan, Presiding Member of the assembly said members would offer their maximum support to eradicate the practice in the district.

GNA