The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, George Mireku Duker, has outlined the effective legal and regulatory framework as well as the country’s thriving peace and democracy as factors that guarantees success for investment in the country’s viable artisanal small-scale mining sector.

According to the Deputy Minister, the determination of the government to sanitize the small-scale mining industry and eliminate the excesses that incur losses for industry players should be enough to stimulate the interest of investors in the sector.

Addressing a five-member delegation from Ansong Askew Company Limited, a mining company based in Peru at the ministry, Mr Duker revealed that Ghana’s mining regulatory regime is second to none on the continent.

He stated that the government considers the small-scale mining sector as a platform to create local giants in the mining industry and that any investment that guarantees benefits for the locals without harming the environment is welcomed.

“Ghana has a well-regulated industry as far as the ASM is concerned. We have a legal framework. Democratically, we all know Ghana is one of the most stable countries in Sub-Saharan Africa and choosing Ghana as the place for your entry to Africa is the right choice.”
George Mireku Duker

Government’s policy to ensure a thriving mining economy

After gaining insight into the company’s capacity and commitment to ensure the protection of local interest, Mr Mireku Duker expressed delight that it aligns with the government’s policy and plan for the sector.

He indicated that the promise that over 95% of generated revenue will circulate in the Ghanaian mining economy is in accordance with Act 703 which dictates that the small-scale mining sector should be the preserve of Ghanaians.

Furthermore, Mr Duker assured the delegation that the ministry will take measures to facilitate their smooth establishment in Ghana.

On his part, James Askew, the Chief Executive Officer of Ansong Askew Company Limited, revealed the processing capacity of his outfit, noting that they are the biggest gold exporters in Peru. He noted that the company has the capacity to transform the Ghanaian small-scale mining as it operates in a transparent manner and ensure traceability of the minerals they purchase.

Additionally, Mr Askew explained that his company raised over $200 million from exportations last year with 97% of the proceeds staying in the country and being used to grow the sector. He equally noted that local miners stand a chance of tripling their investment if they decided to transact business with his outfit.

Mr Askew underscored an awareness of Ghana’s ban on the use of mercury for mining, detailing that his company will not conduct its activities in a way that will have negative ramifications on Ghana’s environment.

A year prior, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel A. Jinapor, highlighted that the President Akufo-Addo-led government is committed to creating a conducive environment for the mining sector to thrive.

Speaking during an engagement with the Canadian High Commissioner to Ghana, Ms. Kathleen Csaba, Mr Jinapor pointed out that the over-arching goal of the President Akufo-Addo-led government is to make Ghana the mining hub of Africa, where all the various components of the Mining industry in Africa can be found, mainly from exploration, mining, downstream services, financial services and other related mining activities.

The Canadian High Commissioner on the other hand noted that Ghana is blessed with many natural resources as Canada is, with lots of expertise and know-how, and as such, she is looking forward to working closely with the ministry in developing Ghana’s vast resources together.