The Minerals Commission has opened a new regional office in Kumasi, Ashanti Region, as part of efforts to decentralise regulatory services and strengthen minerals governance across the country.
The modern facility comprises a seven-storey office block, a two-storey specialised laboratory, as well as a museum and public education facility.
Designed as a one-stop centre for minerals administration, the new complex is expected to improve access to regulatory services, mineral testing, technical guidance, stakeholder engagement and public education.
The facility will also serve as a designated centre for licensure examinations conducted by the Inspectorate Division of the Minerals Commission.
Speaking at the openingg ceremony, the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Dr Yusif Sulemana, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening and decentralising Ghana’s mineral administration.
He said decentralisation was essential to improving regulatory effectiveness, service delivery and the responsible management of the country’s mineral resources.
Dr Sulemana stressed the importance of bringing regulatory institutions closer to mining communities and industry stakeholders, describing the move as part of government’s broader agenda to promote sustainable development within the mining sector.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Isaac Andrews Tandoh, described the new facility as a tangible reflection of a new era in minerals governance, anchored on accessibility, efficiency, transparency and sustainable development.
According to him, the regional office would reduce travel time and related costs for stakeholders while facilitating faster processing of applications and strengthening regulatory oversight in the Ashanti Region and beyond.
The opening ceremony was attended by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Frank Amoakohene; representatives of His Royal Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II; members of the Minerals Commission Board; government officials; traditional leaders; representatives of the mining industry and other stakeholders.
The new regional office is expected to bring the Commission’s services closer to mining companies, small-scale miners, host communities and the general public.
The Commission said the facility would further support its mandate to promote responsible and sustainable mining and contribute to the effective management of Ghana’s mineral resources for national development.
