MCE Commences Community Training For Small-Scale Miners On Responsible Mining Practices
The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Kwahu West Municipality, Hon. Tamimu Halidu, has commenced an extensive community training programme for small-scale miners as part of government efforts to formalize and strengthen Ghana’s small-scale mining sector.
The training, organized under the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP), took place in Nkawkaw in the Eastern Region.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Hon. Halidu said the initiative is aimed at curbing illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, by transitioning local miners into safe and legal mining operations.
He disclosed that following a series of negotiations he led with Akroma Gold Mining Company Limited, a portion of the company’s large-scale concession believed to contain significant mineral deposits has been secured for community-based mining.
He noted that the Kwahu West Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) is working closely with regulatory agencies to ensure that the trained practices are fully implemented.
On his part, the Community Relations Manager of Akroma Gold Mining Company Limited, Mr. Enoch Agblo, emphasized that members of the community cooperative must properly supervise their operations and ensure compliance with mining regulations.
He said the miners must be guided by strict regulations and modern technologies needed to undertake responsible, safe and environmentally sustainable mining activities.
According to him, the initiative is expected to safeguard water bodies, protect the environment, improve productivity, and preserve the environmental health of communities.
He encouraged members of the Community Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme to remain law-abiding and adhere to responsible mining standards, warning that those who fail to comply with the law will face legal consequences.
Mr. Agblo further highlighted the company’s social support for various communities, noting that it has made several presentations as part of its corporate social intervention programmes.
Finally, the Deputy National Coordinator in charge of Operations for rCOMSDEP, Mr. George Dadzie Junior, disclosed that the programme aligns with its mandate to support responsible mining operations, improve livelihoods, and foster a more structured and accountable small-scale mining industry.
He said the programme is equipped with modern processing technologies and water treatment systems to reduce pollution and protect the environment.
He advised the trainee miners to put to use the knowledge, skills and best practices acquired during the training, noting that it forms part of broader government measures to promote responsible mining and address challenges associated with illegal and environmentally harmful mining practices.
Story by Janet Kwaakye(Poma Poma)
