Felix Cofie
The Government of Ghana has launched the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP), a new initiative designed to promote responsible small-scale mining while ensuring host communities benefit directly from mineral resources.
The programme was unveiled in Bibiani today by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, who stressed government’s commitment to sustainable mining practices.
“Mining communities can and should benefit from the mineral deposits in their localities,” the Minister declared, noting that rCOMSDEP aims to transform small-scale mining into a more structured, transparent and community-driven activity.
A major component of the programme is a directive for large-scale mining companies to release portions of their concessions to support community-based cooperatives.
Hon. Buah called on these companies to go beyond land allocation by also providing training, mentorship, and logistics to help ensure the success of the initiative.
“Responsible mining is not just about extracting resources, but about empowering people and safeguarding the environment,” he added.
The framework of rCOMSDEP is designed to provide jobs, build skills, and channel mining proceeds into community development. Hon. Buah revealed that some large-scale companies, including Asante Gold Corporation in Bibiani, have already expressed their readiness to support the scheme, setting an example for others in the sector.
The Minister said government expects the initiative to strike a balance between economic growth, environmental protection, and social inclusion.
“With rCOMSDEP, we are opening a new chapter where mining communities can share in the wealth beneath their feet, while ensuring mining is done responsibly and sustainably,” he affirmed.
