Mine gold responsibly and restore degraded lands – Lands Minister tells cooperatives

Lands Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah has called on small-scale mining cooperatives to mine gold responsibly and restore degraded lands. He emphasized that mining should generate economic opportunities without harming the environment, waterways, or future generations' livelihoods. At a ceremony in Nkroful, in the Western Region, he presented certificates and permits to five responsible cooperative mining societies: Salman, Atomic, Asanta, Bomoakpole, and Akropong.

This initiative is part of the government's strategy to regulate the sector and promote responsible mining practices. The Regional Director of the Department of Cooperatives, Akwasi Adjei Bawuah, stated that the inauguration offered a chance to transform the future of small-scale mining in the region. He urged the five societies to dispel the notion that small-scale mining is environmentally destructive by operating legally, prioritizing safety, and ensuring fair benefits for members.

Bawuah also emphasized the importance of adhering to cooperative bylaws and ensuring equal treatment for all members. He stressed the need for transparent record-keeping, open weighing of gold, fair distribution of proceeds, and proper management of members' funds. Furthermore, Bawuah urged cooperatives to make the use of safety equipment, such as helmets and boots, mandatory for members.

He also called for tree planting and land reclamation efforts to restore lands affected by mining. Bawuah urged cooperatives to uphold accountability, safety, and environmental protection as they commence their operations.