By Ruth Serwaa Asare
Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, has declared a new chapter in Ghana’s mining sector, announcing the end of unsafe and illegal mining practices at the launch of the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development programme in Obuasi.
“The era of dig and die is over. Today, we begin a new era of mine and thrive,” the Minister said, emphasizing government’s commitment to promoting sustainable, safe, and community driven mining.
Minister Buah revealed that the initiative, approved by President John Dramani Mahama, aims to empower local communities to legally and responsibly participate in mining while protecting the environment. “We are creating a system where our youth no longer dig for survival, but are equipped to build a future of dignity,” he stated.
Under the programme, community owned mobile cooperatives will be established, with legal concessions, modern mercury free processing facilities, and mandatory training in collaboration with the University of Mines and Technology. Mobile licensing teams from the Minerals Commission and Environmental Protection Agency will also visit communities to register and permit miners on site.
The Minister assured that mining revenues would directly benefit host communities, funding schools, hospitals, clean water systems, and land restoration projects. “Mining must be a partnership between the people and the land. Every acre degraded will be reclaimed,” he pledged.
He called for strong collaboration from traditional leaders, large scale mining companies, and community members, urging all stakeholders to join the mission. “We must succeed. It is our obligation to future generations,” Minister Buah affirmed.
