Asante monarch Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has urged new Lands and Natural Resources Minister Samuel Abu Jinapor to fight illegal small-scale mining to protect the environment.

The Asantehene gave the charge when Mr Jinapor paid a courtesy call on him at the Manhyia Palace as part of a two-day working visit to the Ashanti Region.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II said mining can be done in an environmentally-friendly manner if managed properly.

He advised that the necessary procedures are gone through in acquiring lands in forest zones.

Also, he told the Minister that his outfit must ensure that the right things are to avert clashes.