Nzema East launches Responsible Cooperative Mining Programme to tackle environmental destruction
The government has launched the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme in the Nzema East Municipality of the Western Region to promote safer, more organised, and environmentally responsible small-scale mining.
In the Nzema East Municipality of Ghana's Western Region, authorities have initiated the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme. The aim is to foster safer, more organized, and eco-friendly small-scale mining practices in areas like Akangoo, Axim-Agona, and Adelekezo. The programme seeks to bolster mining cooperatives, ensure adherence to mining regulations, and safeguard aquatic ecosystems, agricultural lands, and vegetation from the adverse impacts of irresponsible mining.
Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, highlighted the gravity of environmental degradation caused by reckless mining. He cautioned that the destruction of natural resources has posed significant challenges to water treatment and ecological restoration. Ghana boasts 118 forest reserves, yet 44 have reportedly been destroyed, while environmental pollution poses a significant threat to the nation's water resources.
Ghana's Minerals Commission acknowledges that unlawful mining activities contribute to the deterioration of agricultural lands, water pollution, deforestation, and public health risks. Emmanuel Kwamena Anyimah, Deputy Director of the Minerals Commission, emphasized the need for responsible, legal, and sustainable mining practices.
The Commission aims to promote lawful mining, reinforce regulatory oversight, enhance occupational health and safety, and foster initiatives that bolster the organization and performance of small-scale miners.
Sheihu Siddiq, Acting National Coordinator of the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme, announced that cooperatives will receive assistance to comply with regulatory standards and enhance operational capabilities. This support will encompass mine safety, appropriate processing technologies, responsible water management, and the rehabilitation of damaged mining areas.
Siddiq urged cooperative members to operate strictly within their authorized concessions and adhere to all relevant regulations. He emphasized that the initiative presents an opportunity to showcase that responsible small-scale mining can be lucrative and environmentally and safety-conscious.
Kofi Arko Nokoe, Member of Parliament for the area, welcomed the initiative to bring licensing services closer to mining communities and strengthen local monitoring through municipal security structures. He stressed that responsible mining should deliver tangible benefits to host communities, including decent jobs and sustainable livelihoods, while protecting rivers, farmlands, and restoring mined lands.
Written by urgent.news from MyJoyOnline Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
