The Himan Ankobrah Community Mining Scheme (CMS) has been officially inaugurated in the Prestea-Huni Valley District of the Western Region, marking a significant milestone in Ghana’s mining sector.
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Samuel A. Jinapor, presided over the inauguration, signaling the government’s commitment to harnessing the potential of small-scale mining while ensuring sustainability and environmental protection. This latest commissioning brings the total number of officially launched CMS concessions to twenty-five nationwide, showcasing the government’s proactive approach to fostering economic growth in local communities through responsible mining practices.
“The Akufo-Addo-Bawumia government is not against small-scale mining. We want to grow the sector so anyone who claims that we are against small-scale mining is peddling falsehood. Our mission is to protect our rivers and forest reserves and ensure everyone benefits from what God has given us. We want to create opportunities for everyone here.
The Community Mining will propel the local economy of Himang and the Prestea-Huni Valley constituency. That is the noble undertaking of the CMS. We’ve established a number of concessions across the country and they have been helpful.”
Hon. Samuel A. Jinapor, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
The Himang Ankobrah concession, the third in the constituency, is poised to create a substantial number of job opportunities, both directly and indirectly, with an estimated 8000 positions expected to be generated.
Addressing a gathering of Chiefs and residents from Himang Ankobrah and its environs, Minister Jinapor reaffirmed the government’s stance on small-scale mining. He emphasized that the administration under President Akufo-Addo is not against small-scale mining but is rather dedicated to eradicating its excesses, ensuring that mining activities contribute positively to the socio-economic development of the nation.
Minister Jinapor stressed the importance of adhering to mining laws and regulations, urging miners to conduct their activities responsibly and refrain from encroaching upon protected water bodies and forest reserves.
The Community Mining Scheme represents a paradigm shift in Ghana’s mining sector, aiming to empower local communities while promoting sustainable mining practices. By engaging in small-scale mining activities within established concessions, communities like Himang Ankobrah stand to benefit economically while safeguarding the environment for future generations.
Minister Jinapor remarked optimistically, “The CMS will propel the local economy of Himang and the Prestea-Huni Valley constituency. Our mission is to ensure that every effort and initiative undertaken by the government leads to efficiency and sustainability in the harnessing of our natural resources.”
Speaking at the inauguration, Barbara Oteng Gyasi, the Board Chair of the Minerals Commission and New Patriotic Party’s parliamentary candidate for the area underscored the importance of adhering to the rules and regulations governing the Community Mining Scheme. She expressed gratitude to large-scale mining companies that had ceded part of their concessions for the CMS project, highlighting the collaborative effort between government and private stakeholders in promoting responsible mining practices.
“The CMS will reduce unemployment and help this community to grow. I urge everyone engaged in mining to ensure that their companies are registered and licensed to operate. The Minerals Commission stands ready to assist and support companies in obtaining the necessary certification to expand their operations.”
Barbara Oteng Gyasi, the Board Chair of the Minerals Commission
Nana Nteboah Prah IV, the chief of Himang Ankobrah, lauded the arrival of the CMS in his town as a historic development that would bring about tangible benefits for the local community. He expressed optimism about the positive impact of the mining scheme on job creation and economic growth, emphasizing the importance of responsible stewardship of natural resources for the well-being of future generations.
As the Himang Ankobrah Community Mining Scheme takes root, it represents not only a source of economic opportunity for residents but also a beacon of hope for sustainable development in Ghana’s mining sector. With careful adherence to regulations and a commitment to environmental stewardship, the CMS holds the promise of transforming communities and fostering inclusive growth for all stakeholders involved.
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