Hon. George Mireku Duker, the Member of Parliament (MP) and Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, recently asserted that the current administration is the first to fully commit to developing Ghana’s Small-Scale Mining Sector.
Speaking at a recent public engagement, Hon. Duker highlighted a series of reforms and initiatives that have not only advanced the sector but also positioned Ghana as the continent’s largest gold producer.
Hon. Duker outlined several key reforms rolled out by the government, underscoring the unprecedented commitment to transforming the small-scale mining landscape. Among these initiatives is the establishment of community mining schemes, which have provided structured and sustainable avenues for local miners. These schemes have been instrumental in promoting legal and environmentally responsible mining practices.
“The current government has significantly re-tooled the inspectorate division of the Minerals Commission. This enhancement has bolstered regulatory oversight and enforcement, ensuring that mining activities adhere to established standards and regulations.”
Hon. George Mireku Duker, MP and Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
Hon. Duker further noted that the decentralization of the Minerals Commission has seen the establishment of more regional offices from 2017 to date than in the period from its inception in 1993 to 2017. This decentralization has improved accessibility and efficiency in mining administration across the country.
“An online license application system has been deployed, reducing the period required for acquiring mining licenses,” Hon. Duker highlighted. This move towards digitalization he noted, has enhanced transparency and efficiency in the licensing process, addressing long-standing bureaucratic delays.
Additionally, Hon. Duker emphasized that the procurement of mercury-free gold processing equipment for small-scale miners reflects the government’s commitment to environmentally responsible mining. Mercury-free technology not only protects the environment but also safeguards the health of miners and local communities.
“In a bid to increase the financial viability of small-scale mining, the government has reduced the withholding tax on gold exports from 3% to 1.5%. This tax reduction is expected to boost legal gold exports and enhance revenue for miners.”
Hon. George Mireku Duker, MP and Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
To combat illegal mining, Hon. Duker noted that the government has procured speed boats to patrol and prevent unauthorized mining activities on water bodies. This measure is crucial for protecting Ghana’s rivers and lakes from the destructive impacts of illegal mining.
Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Hon. Duker shared insights into Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s bold vision for the future of Ghana’s mining sector.
As part of his campaign for the 2024 elections, Hon. Duker affirmed that Dr. Bawumia has promised to build on the government’s achievements by creating more community mining schemes and expanding areas available for small-scale mining through an increased exploration budget.
“Dr. Bawumia also envisions the establishment of the Minerals Development Bank, which would serve as a financing powerhouse for indigenous mining projects. This bank is expected to provide much-needed capital for local miners, facilitating growth and expansion within the sector.”
Hon. George Mireku Duker, MP and Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
Additionally, Hon. Duker asserted that Dr. Bawumia plans to implement a pension scheme for miners, providing them with financial security and stability. An equipment pool for miners is also in the pipeline, which would ensure that small-scale miners have access to the necessary tools and machinery.
The government’s vision includes deepening the involvement of traditional authorities in licensing administration, ensuring that local leaders play a pivotal role in the governance of mining activities.
“Establish common-user processing units in Mining Communities to aid in helping miners get the necessary recovery of gold, which will also help manage the environmental impact of processing and the government receiving appropriate revenues.”
Hon. George Mireku Duker, MP and Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
Hon. Duker was critical of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), claiming that they have not made any significant achievements in the fight against illegal mining or the development of the sector.
“The NDC has failed to implement meaningful reforms and has left the sector in disarray,” Hon. Duker stated, emphasizing the contrast between the current government’s proactive measures and the previous administration’s inaction.
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