In a significant move toward sustainable coexistence, Nawara Mining Company has announced its dedicated collaboration with the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) and other stakeholders to protect cocoa farms situated within its operational areas.
The mining company has responded to concerns raised by cocoa farmers in the Fanteakwa South District and Abuakwa North Municipality, assuring them of a proactive approach to mitigating the impact on their farms.
The commitment to collaboration was solidified following a petition submitted by cocoa farmers who expressed apprehensions about the potential destruction of cocoa farms within Nawara Mining Company’s concession. While compensations were being offered, farmers were still uneasy about the long-term effects on their livelihoods.
To address these concerns, Nawara Mining Company engaged with various stakeholders at its premises, seeking to understand the intricate dynamics between mining operations and cocoa cultivation. After thorough discussions, the management of the mining company reasserted its commitment to working closely with COCOBOD and the Minerals Commission.
Paul Ocran, Administrator with Nawara Mining Company, emphasized that the company would be guided in its operations within cocoa-growing areas.
“COCOBOD and stakeholders met us to discuss concerns of the cocoa farmers. We have narrated our side of the story. We have not worked in Osiem even though we are undertaking prospecting activities. COCOBOD explained the provisions of the Economic Plant Protection Act to us, so we agreed that going forward, we will work with COCOBOD, Minerals Commission, and all stakeholders. It was a fruitful discussion; we have learned a lot.”
Paul Ocran
He further acknowledged the importance of sensitization by COCOBOD, expressing confidence that it would assist and guide Nawara Mining Company in its operations.
The Company’s Intention to Report to Regulators
Mr Ocran also mentioned the company’s intention to report to regulators such as the Minerals Commission, EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), and other relevant agencies for further guidance.
In an interview, Prof. Michael Kwateng, Head of the Anti-illegal Mining Unit of Ghana COCOBOD, called on the Minerals Commission to conduct due diligence before granting mining concessions in cocoa-growing areas.
Prof. Kwateng highlighted a crucial factor contributing to the issue, stating that mining concessions covering cocoa farms are sometimes allocated without the consent of COCOBOD, violating legal provisions of the Economic Plants Protection Act.
Prof. Kwateng emphasized that the law mandates the endorsement of a land area by all relevant stakeholders, including COCOBOD, EPA, Minerals Commission, Forestry Commission, and Ghana Water Company, after proper prospecting before designating it as a mining concession.
Prof. Kwateng iterated COCOBOD’s commitment to addressing issues related to the unlawful destruction of cocoa trees through the Economic Plant Protection Act.
The Influence of illegal mining and smuggling has adversely impacted COCOBOD’s cocoa purchase target for the year, falling short of the aimed 850,000 tonnes, unable to reach even 700,000 tonnes.
This partnership signifies a crucial step towards finding a harmonious balance between mining activities and the preservation of vital agricultural resources. By aligning their efforts with COCOBOD, Nawara Mining Company aims to implement comprehensive strategies that go beyond compensations to actively safeguard the cocoa farms in its operational zones.
The collaboration is expected to involve joint initiatives, including the establishment of stringent monitoring mechanisms and the implementation of best practices to minimize the environmental impact of mining on cocoa cultivation. Nawara Mining Company acknowledges the importance of cocoa farming in Ghana’s economy and is determined to contribute positively to the sustainability of this crucial sector.
The renewed commitment to collaboration with COCOBOD and the Minerals Commission reflects Nawara Mining Company’s dedication to responsible and sustainable mining practices. It demonstrates a recognition of the interdependence between mining and agriculture, emphasizing the need for both sectors to thrive cohesively for the benefit of local communities and the nation at large.
The Nawara Mining Company’s pledge to collaborate with COCOBOD marks a positive turning point in the ongoing dialogue between mining and agriculture. This alliance holds the promise of fostering a mutually beneficial relationship, ensuring the protection of cocoa farms and sustainable development within the mining company’s operational areas.
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