Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, has disclosed that cooperative mining is Ghana’s most viable pathway to responsible small-scale mining and job creation.
According to the Lands Minister, the natural resources belong to Ghanaians, but it is incumbent on Ghana to employ mining methods that do not pose a threat to our environment.
He highlighted that mineral wealth must be harnessed in a manner that creates jobs while protecting the environment.
Kofi Buah detailed that the cooperative mining forms part of the government’s efforts to replace illegal and destructive mining practices, expressing concern over the devastating impact of illegal mining on Ghana’s natural resources.
The Lands Minister asserted that several forest reserves have been degraded, with major rivers and water bodies heavily polluted with harmful chemicals.
Speaking at the launch of the Akyem Kotoku Cooperative Mining Scheme in the Birim North District, the Lands Minister stated, “The natural resources belong to Ghanaians. It is incumbent on us to employ mining methods that do not pose a threat to our environment”.
The Lands Minister further announced that young people in Birim North would be trained and certified to engage in responsible mining, equipping them with the knowledge and skills required to operate safely, sustainably, and in compliance with regulations.
According to the Lands Minister, the programme would be inclusive, with no youth in the district left behind as the government works to expand opportunities within the small-scale mining sector.
He further disclosed that the success of the cooperative mining scheme will not only create employment and improve livelihoods but also help restore public confidence.
The Lands Minister also stressed that Ghana’s mining industry lies in balancing economic development with environmental protection, adding that cooperative mining provides a feasible framework for realising both objectives.
Earlier, a video surfaced on social media alleging that the Abirem NDC constituency executives are angry at Lands and Natural Resources Minister Armah Kofi Buah.
Reports alleged that Kofi Buah was blocked from launching the government’s cooperative mining scheme after he allegedly bought the “Best Minister” award at the 6th Ghana Ministers of State Excellence Awards.
A Joy News footage shared on X showed a chaotic outdoor crowd of men pushing metal barriers and gathering near vehicles and buildings.
The development follows Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, who won the Best Performing Minister at the 6th Ghana Ministers of State Awards.
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