CSR must be measurable commitment, not a gesture of convenience – Ga Mantse tells mining companies

The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has urged mining companies to ensure their corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives are measurable and beneficial for the communities they operate in, rather than treating them as occasional gestures. Speaking at the National Mining Dialogue 2026 in Accra, the Ga Mantse emphasized that CSR should be an integral part of mining companies' responsibility to host communities.

He argued that properly managed mining could bring tangible benefits, including the construction of roads, schools, hospitals, and clean water supplies. Mining could also support education through scholarships and vocational training, as well as create employment opportunities for locals, including young people, local contractors, transport operators, engineers, and artisans.

The Ga Mantse stressed the importance of local content in the mining sector, urging companies to hire Ghanaians, train them, and procure goods and services from local businesses. This would not only create economic opportunities but also ensure that the benefits of mining are retained within Ghana.

He also cautioned that maintaining the trust of host communities is crucial, as the social licence to operate is conferred by local leaders and can be withdrawn. The Ga Mantse urged mining companies to recognize the long-term impact of their operations, emphasizing that the land and its people would remain long after the companies leave.

Therefore, he stressed the need for proper land reclamation. Lastly, he urged all stakeholders in the mining sector to prioritize responsible mining, local participation, and sustainable community development in their operations.