The new Governing Board of the Minerals Development Fund (MDF) was inaugurated by Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah (MP), Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, with the explicit goal of prioritizing transparent, accountable, and community-focused development in mining regions. This will strengthen governance for Ghana’s mining communities.
Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah highlighted the Fund’s critical role in guaranteeing that mineral riches directly enhances life in mining-affected areas during his remarks at the inaugural event on July 7, 2025.
“The MDF represents our nation’s covenant with mining communities, a promise that the resources extracted from their lands will meaningfully transform their quality of life,” the Minister stated.
Act 912 (2016) established the MDF, which uses a standardized framework for disbursements:
• 50% to the Office of the Administrator of Stool Lands (OASL);
• 20% to the Mining Community Development Scheme (MCDS);
• 13% to the Minerals Commission.
• 8% to the Ghana Geological Survey Authority (GSA);
• 4% to the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
• 5% for research, training, and sustainable development initiatives; and
• 2% for administrative and operational expenses.
Completing all ongoing community development projects, creating strong alternative livelihood programs, and putting in place transparent financial management procedures are among the immediate tasks that Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah also entrusted the Board with.
The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Yusif Sulemana, underlined the necessity of a decisive break from previous poor management.
In order to ensure that monies are allocated to the places that need them the most, he asked the Board to approach their appointments as a national service.
In addition to expressing thanks for the chance to serve, Board Chairman Akwasi Nsiah Awuah reaffirmed the Board’s dedication to responsible management.
The government’s determination to guarantee that mineral profits result in long-term community advancement is demonstrated by the inauguration, which signals a fresh push for sustainable, inclusive development in Ghana’s mining districts.
Source: newsthemegh.com