MLNR-PR UPDATES
Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, has started a working trip of the Upper East Region, interacting with important stakeholders on environmental preservation, community development, and mining reforms.
During the visit, the Minister paid the Upper East Regional Minister, Hon.Donatus Akamugri Atanga a courtesy call., and subsequently got to know Tongo-Raana Kolbilsong Namalteng, the Paramount Chief of the Talensi Traditional Area.
Inspections of Cardinal Namdini Mining Company and Earl International Group Gold Ghana Limited’s operations were also included of the excursion.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, the National Coordinator for the RCOMSDEP, directors from the Ministry, and Sulemana Yusif, Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, joined the Minister on the trip.
Speaking at the Upper East Regional Coordinating Council, Hon. Buah highlighted the mining industry’s continuing reforms, such as the introduction of District Mining Committees to increase community involvement.
“The whole idea is to give communities a voice from the very beginning whether mining should take place or not”, he stated.
In order to guarantee that mining benefits host communities, he continued, the government is implementing programs like the Community Development Fund and fortifying legislative frameworks.
Additionally, the Minister emphasised the Responsible Cooperative Mining Program’s efforts to combat illicit mining.
He emphasised, “Mining is legal, but it must be done responsibly. We must guide those operating illegally into proper structures that protect our land and water bodies”,
Tongo-Raana Calls for Action on Illegal Mining and Licensing
The Tongo-Raana, Tongo-Raana Kolbilsong Namalteng, expressed grave worries about the effects of illicit mining on the environment and local livelihoods at the Talensi Traditional Area.
He urged the government to act decisively, describing the situation as an increasing threat to farmlands and water bodies.
“This activity is rapidly destroying our farms and water bodies. We must take effective action to eliminate or minimize this danger,” he stated.
Noting that some permits are issued without the traditional authority’ knowledge, the Paramount Chief also demanded stricter oversight of the issuance of mining licenses.
He did, however, support the government’s cooperative mining plan, claiming that it might help formalise local participation while guaranteeing environmental protection and safety.
Mining Companies Urged to Follow Regulations
The Minister visited Earl International Group and Cardinal Namdini Mining Company as part of the tour, where he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to assisting ethical investors while upholding stringent regulatory compliance.
Hon. Buah cautioned businesses at the mining sites against taking short cuts, particularly with regard to safety and environmental regulations.
“If you cut corners, we will not hesitate to take your license. You must play by the rules of Ghana”, he said.
Additionally, he stressed the significance of transferring skills and local content.
“By the time we finish mining, we should be proud that we have built capacity and empowered Ghanaians”, he stated.
The management of Earl International Group Gold Ghana Limited recognised the problems caused by illicit mining, especially when unauthorised miners entered their concession areas.
“Illegal mining activities are seriously affecting our operations and pose safety risks. We appeal for urgent support to address this” the General Manager noted.
The company reiterated its dedication to supporting the social and economic advancement of host communities in spite of the difficulties.
The Minister’s visit is a component of the government’s larger initiatives to improve regulation, restructure Ghana’s mining industry, and guarantee that the use of natural resources results in sustainable development for nearby communities.
Source: newsthemegh.com