Lands Ministry engages Asutifi North stakeholders on responsible mining initiative

The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has convened key stakeholders in Asutifi North District, located in the Ahafo Region, to discuss plans for a Responsible Cooperative Mining Initiative. The event took place in Kenyasi and brought together traditional leaders, assembly members, small-scale miners, security agencies, civil society organizations, politicians, and other relevant parties.

The initiative aims to promote responsible mining practices, generate legitimate employment opportunities, and minimize environmental degradation caused by illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey.

The Asutifi North Member of Parliament, Ebenezer Kwaku Addo, welcomed the initiative, calling it a crucial step towards safeguarding the district's natural resources. He emphasized that the program could offer legal and sustainable employment, particularly for the youth, while ensuring that mining activities are carried out responsibly.

District Chief Executive Hafiz Dauda reported that pockets of illegal mining persist within the district. He pledged the Assembly's support for the initiative and underscored the importance of collaboration among stakeholders in combating illegal mining. The Queen Mother of Kenyasi No. 2, Nana Akua Tinkwamaa, also voiced her approval for the program, stating that traditional authorities are prepared to cooperate with government entities and other stakeholders to tackle illegal mining, which she considers a persistent issue in the area.