The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has underscored the importance of responsible mining in protecting Ghana’s water bodies and forest reserves, describing sustainable mining practices as critical to safeguarding the environment for future generations.
Speaking at the launch of the maiden Cooperative Mining Scheme at Akyem Kotoku in the Eastern Region, Mr. Buah called on miners and community members to embrace responsible mining practices to ensure the long-term success of the initiative.
The Minister outlined Government’s five-pillar strategy aimed at combating illegal mining and promoting sustainable resource management. According to him, the strategy focuses on strengthened stakeholder engagement, enhanced law enforcement, regulatory reforms, reclamation of degraded lands and water bodies, and the creation of alternative livelihood opportunities.
He explained that the implementation of these measures would help improve the quality of the country’s water bodies, restore degraded forest reserves, and promote environmentally responsible mining activities.
Mr. Buah described the Cooperative Mining Scheme as a major step towards transforming Ghana’s small-scale mining sector through responsible, sustainable, and community-driven practices.
Demonstrating Government’s commitment to modernising the small-scale mining sector, Mr. Buah announced that the Akyem Kotoku Cooperative Mining Scheme would receive the first Gold Katcha machine. The technology is expected to enhance gold recovery, minimise waste, and support responsible mining operations while improving returns for miners.The Minister also commended participants of the Responsible
