E/R:Kwahu West MCE Launches Training for Small-Scale Miners to Promote Responsible Mining

 

The Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) has organized an extensive training programme for small-scale miners in Nkawkaw, in the Kwahu West Municipality of the Eastern Region, as part of government efforts to formalize and strengthen Ghana's small-scale mining sector.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Municipal Chief Executive for Kwahu West, Hon. Tamimu Halidu, said the training is aimed at curbing illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, by transitioning local miners into safe and legal mining operations.

Under the initiative, selected miners will be granted access to mine on part of the large-scale concession of Akroma Gold Mining Company Limited, a site believed to contain significant mineral deposits.

The development follows a series of negotiations led by Hon. Halidu with Akroma Gold Mining Company Limited to secure the concession for community-based mining. He noted that his office is working closely with regulatory agencies to ensure that best practices are fully implemented.

The Community Relations Manager of Akroma Gold Mining Company Limited, Mr. Enoch Agblo, emphasized that operations under the programme must be properly supervised to ensure compliance with mining regulations.

He said miners must be guided by strict regulations and modern technologies needed to undertake responsible, safe, and environmentally sustainable mining, with emphasis on safety and environmental protection to improve productivity while preserving community health and natural resources.

He added that the initiative is expected to safeguard water bodies, protect the environment, and improve livelihoods in mining communities. He urged members of the cooperative to remain law-abiding and adhere to responsible mining standards, warning that those who fail to comply will face legal consequences. He also highlighted the company's social support interventions for various communities.

For his part, 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 that prioritizes environmental conservation.

He noted that the miners would be equipped with modern processing technologies and water treatment systems to reduce pollution and protect the environment, and advised the trainee miners to apply the knowledge, skills, and best practices acquired.

He said the programme forms part of broader government measures to promote responsible mining and address challenges associated with illegal and environmentally harmful mining practices.

Credit: Janet Kwakye