Lands Minister Urges Large-Scale Miners To Support Small-Scale Mining Cooperatives
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, is urging large-scale mining companies to collaborate with the government in supporting the Small-Scale Mining Cooperative Initiative, a key strategy aimed at curbing illegal mining activities across the country.
According to the Minister, this new initiative, introduced under the Mahama administration, seeks to formalize and supervise informal miners by organizing them into cooperatives.
The goal is to ensure environmental compliance, improve accountability, and reduce the negative impact of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
During a working visit to Gold Fields and AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine in Tarkwa, Mr. Buah emphasized the need for mining giants to leverage their expertise and resources to help drive the government’s vision for a more sustainable and regulated mining sector.
In response, Stephen Adjei, Senior Manager for Sustainability at AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine, expressed support for the initiative.
He, however, proposed a structured dialogue between stakeholders to discuss its implementation and ensure long-term sustainability.
Ghana has long battled illegal mining despite several interventions, including Operation Vanguard.
The cooperative model is expected to offer a more community-centered and enforceable solution.
Story by Nana Fynn@W/R
