Attempts to link David Dakudzi to illegal mining fail as his popularity soars

Concerns are mounting within political circles in the Eastern Region following what supporters of Comrade David Dakudzi describe as a deliberate misinformation campaign aimed at linking the businessman and politician to illegal mining activities popularly known as galamsey.

According to persons close to the aspiring regional figure, opponents who previously failed in attempts to discredit him politically have now resorted to spreading claims across constituencies that he is involved in illegal mining and does not possess a valid mining licence.

However, available records and industry information indicate that Comrade David Dakudzi operates legally within Ghana’s mining sector through his company, Q 8 Mining Ventures.

Sources within the mining industry say the company acquired its small-scale mining licence during the administration of the late President John Evans Atta Mills, when Mike Hammah served as Minister for Lands and Natural Resources.

The company is also said to be affiliated with the Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners (GNASSM), the umbrella body representing licensed small-scale miners in the country.

Industry observers argue that the ongoing controversy highlights the persistent public confusion between licensed small-scale mining and illegal mining activities known as galamsey.

Under Ghana’s Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), small scale mining is recognized and regulated by law. Section 83(1) of the Act states that:

“A person shall not engage in or undertake small scale mining operations unless there is in existence in relation to the mining operation a licence granted by the Minister responsible for Mines.”

Legal analysts note that the law therefore draws a clear distinction between licensed mining operations and illegal mining activities.

Supporters of Comrade David Dakudzi argue that attempts to portray all small-scale mining operators as galamsey participants are misleading and unfair to investors who operate within the legal framework of the country.

The debate also comes at a time when licensed small-scale miners are playing an increasingly important role in Ghana’s gold trade through the government’s GoldBod initiative.

Economic analysts say licensed miners currently contribute significantly to gold supply, foreign exchange inflows and national gold reserves, all of which support efforts to stabilize the Ghana cedi and strengthen the economy.

Sources familiar with the mining sector further indicate that Q 8 Mining Ventures has been identified among companies expected to feature in an upcoming documentary project highlighting stakeholders within the GoldBod value chain.

The company reportedly employs more than 200 workers, including engineers, machine operators, mechanics, welders, drivers, security personnel and other skilled and unskilled workers.

Observers say the development raises broader questions about the politicization of legitimate business activities and the need to distinguish clearly between lawful enterprise and illegal operations within Ghana’s mining industry.

They argue that while illegal mining must be tackled decisively, licensed operators who comply with the law and contribute to employment and national development should not be unfairly criminalized for political convenience.