Hon. Samuel A. Jinapor, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, has inaugurated an ultra-modern office complex for the Minerals Commission at Akim Oda. This development is aimed at enhancing the commission’s monitoring and regulatory functions within the Birim Central Municipality and the broader Eastern Region.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Minister Jinapor highlighted the government’s strategic move to decentralize the Minerals Commission’s operations, bringing them closer to mining communities and operators. This approach aims to streamline regulatory processes and improve the oversight of mining activities.
“In addition to overseeing small-scale mining operations in Akim Oda, this office will supervise mining activities in Akwatia, Anyinam, Osinor, Asamantafo, Kade, Adankrono, among others. These areas have a long history of community mining. I am pleased that we have been able to construct this multi-purpose edifice for the people of Akim Oda.”
Hon. Samuel A. Jinapor, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
Hon. Jinapor detailed the significant expansion of the Minerals Commission under the Akufo-Addo administration. He revealed that the commission’s operations have been bolstered with the construction of four new district offices, twelve satellite offices, and two observatory offices. This expansion is aimed at improving oversight and regulatory compliance within the mining sector.
“In addition to overseeing small-scale mining operations in Akim Oda, this office will supervise mining activities in Akwatia, Anyinam, Osinor, Asamantafo, Kade, Adankrono, among others,” Jinapor explained. He expressed satisfaction with the construction quality and assured that measures are in place to ensure proper maintenance for effective service delivery.
“With this fully furnished office commissioned, I want to assure you that Akim Oda will soon have a community mining scheme. The MP has been persistent, and I am here to announce that Akim Oda will soon benefit from a Community Mining Scheme. This office will definitely monitor the operations of the Community Mining Scheme.”
Hon. Samuel A. Jinapor, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
Hon. Jinapor commended the Member of Parliament for Akim Oda, Alexandre Kwasi Aquah, for his persistent efforts in realizing the office and the CMS.
Hon. Barbara Oteng Gyasi, Chairperson of the Minerals Commission Board, reiterated the commission’s mandate to regularize mining to benefit all Ghanaians and protect the environment. She stressed the importance of expanding the commission’s offices to ensure effective monitoring of mining activities, especially in the Eastern Region, which plays a critical role in the country’s mining landscape.
Oseadieyo Dr. Frimpong Manso IV, Paramount Chief of the Akyem Kotoku Traditional Area, expressed his delight at the impending Community Mining Scheme. He praised the Lands Minister for fulfilling the requests of the MP and the residents, emphasizing the economic significance of mining to the local community, and committing to ensuring compliance with mining regulations.
The newly commissioned two-story office complex, which began construction in 2022, is estimated to cost GH¢5 million. The facility is equipped with four washrooms, two large storerooms, a kitchen on each floor, a conference hall, and other amenities designed to enhance the welfare of the staff and enable them to perform their duties effectively.
This state-of-the-art complex represents a significant investment in the region’s mining infrastructure and demonstrates the government’s resolve to support the sector’s growth and sustainability.
The commissioning of the ultra-modern office complex at Akim Oda marks a pivotal step in strengthening the Minerals Commission’s capacity to oversee and regulate mining activities. It underscores the government’s commitment to fostering sustainable mining practices and improving the livelihoods of communities involved in mining.
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