The National Coordinator for Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development, Ama Mawusi Mawuenyefia, has called on small-scale miners to embrace responsible mining practices as the government rolls out a new initiative aimed at protecting Ghana’s natural resources while creating sustainable economic opportunities for mining communities.
Speaking at the launch of the Cooperative Mining Scheme in New Abirem in the Birim North District within the Akyem Kotoku Traditional Area, Madam Mawusi said the programme forms part of President John Dramani Mahama’s Reset Agenda, which seeks to ensure that the country’s mineral wealth is harnessed responsibly without compromising forests, water bodies and other vital natural resources.
The event, spearheaded by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, brought together key government officials, traditional authorities, mining stakeholders and members of the local community. Among those in attendance were the Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey; the District Chief Executive Officer for Birim North, Hon. Antwi Hakeem Abdul; and the Omanhene of the Akyem Kotoku Traditional Area, HRM Oseadeeyo Dr. Frimpong Manso IV.
Addressing the gathering, Madam Mawusi explained that the establishment of the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Secretariat is intended to address the environmental challenges associated with unregulated small-scale mining by registering miners, strengthening oversight and promoting strict adherence to approved mining standards.
She disclosed that many miners in the New Abirem area had already been registered under the scheme, while arrangements were underway to register others to ensure that all operators work within the legal framework.
According to her, the initiative will also enable host communities to benefit directly from mining activities through a Community Development Fund, which will finance critical infrastructure projects such as schools, hospitals and roads.
She commended the chiefs and elders of the Akyem Kotoku Traditional Area for their support and cooperation, describing their partnership as crucial to the successful implementation of the initiative. She further acknowledged the contributions of the local assembly, miners and private investors who have partnered with the Secretariat to advance responsible and sustainable mining practices.
Madam Mawusi urged miners to fully embrace the programme, stressing that responsible mining is essential to protecting Ghana’s environment while contributing to national development and improving livelihoods.
Minister Announces Training and Certification for Birim North Youth
In his address, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, announced that young people in the Birim North District would receive specialised training and certification under the Cooperative Mining Scheme to equip them with the skills required to engage in responsible and legally compliant mining.
According to the Minister, the initiative is designed to create sustainable employment opportunities for local youth while promoting environmentally responsible mining practices.
“Birim North youth will be trained and certified to engage in responsible mining,” he stated.
Mr. Armah-Kofi Buah explained that the Cooperative Mining Scheme represents a new approach to small-scale mining by empowering local communities with the technical skills and knowledge needed to mine responsibly while reducing the prevalence of illegal mining.
He emphasised that Ghana’s natural resources belong to all citizens and must be exploited in a manner that safeguards forests, rivers and other critical ecosystems. He noted that years of illegal mining have caused extensive destruction to forest reserves and pollution of major water bodies through the indiscriminate use of harmful chemicals, making it imperative for government to introduce sustainable alternatives.
The Minister described cooperative mining as one of the most effective pathways towards responsible mining in Ghana, expressing confidence that the initiative would create decent jobs, improve compliance with mining regulations and preserve the country’s natural resources for future generations.
Traditional Council Welcomes Initiative
The Omanhene of the Akyem Kotoku Traditional Area, HRM Oseadeeyo Dr. Frimpong Manso IV, welcomed the introduction of the Cooperative Mining Scheme and expressed gratitude to the Minister and his team for bringing the initiative to the area.
According to the paramount chief, the programme will help restore order and sanity to mining activities within the traditional area while protecting the land and its natural resources for generations yet unborn.
He further commended the Minister for demonstrating visionary leadership and commitment to sustainable development, describing his efforts as reflective of the ideals championed by Ghana’s founding President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.
The Cooperative Mining Scheme is expected to strengthen oversight of small-scale mining operations, encourage environmentally sustainable extraction practices and ensure that mining communities share in the benefits derived from the country’s mineral resources while safeguarding the environment.