Residents of Kenyasi No.1 and its surrounding communities in the Asutifi North District of the Ahafo Region have become the latest beneficiaries of government’s sustainable and responsible mining initiative following the launch of a Community Mining Scheme in the enclave.
The scheme was launched by the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, George Mireku Duker.
The country since the beginning of the year has inaugurated 8 community mining schemes whilst 20 others are expected to be completed by end of the year.
The government in a bid to end illegal mining introduced community mining scheme in galamsey endemic areas in the country.
The scheme is being rolled out in the Ashanti, Western and Eastern Regions and it is expected to ensure people mine in a responsible manner.
Addressing a gathering of traditional rulers, dignitaries and the youth, Mr Duker spelt out the safety protocols that must be followed by the mining operators, warning that any action contrary to the relevant regulations and code of practice will incur the wrath of the Minerals Commission who will apply the laws appropriately.
In line with government’s objective of ensuring responsible mining practice across the country, Mr. Duker presented a mercury-free machine to the community to aid them in their activities.
The Deputy Minister disclosed the concession will create 8,000 direct jobs and 2,000 indirect jobs and also tasked the workers to work diligently and ensure government’s objective of raising local champions in the mining industry is achieved.
“We are giving you a mercury-free machine to facilitate your work. With this machine you don’t have to use any chemical to extract the gold apart from water. The machine will aid you to recover over 90% of gold from the ore. In line with requirement the site is also equipped with a first aid centre to provide immediate care in time of need,” he spelt.
He implored them not to go beyond their demarcated areas and asked them to fulfill their Corporate Social Responsibilities when they begin operation.
He asked them to support government to fight the galamsey menace.
The Member of Parliament for Asutifi North, Patrick Banor, bemoaned the resurgence of galamsey activities in the area and warned of the dire effects it could have on the community, noting that with satisfaction, the measures put in place by the Ministry is already yielding results.
He added that the Kenyasi No. 1 Community Mining Scheme will spur socio-economic development in the area.
The Omanhene of Kenyasi No. 1, Nana Kofi Osei Abiri thanked the government and assured his community’s adherence to prescribed regulations.
He threatened to sanction chiefs within his jurisdiction who engage or assist illegal mining activities in the country.
He said critical steps must be taken to rid the area of the phenomenon irrespective of the personalities involved.
”On my part , I have already warned my chiefs and elders against involving themselves in galamsey activities.
Already I have had reports on some things happening in some communities in my traditional area,” he relayed.
By Benjamin Aidoo|AkomaFM|Onuaonline.com
