The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has kicked off an extensive training program aimed at equipping all 85 District Mining Committees (DMCs) and selected small-scale miners across Ghana. This nationwide initiative which took place from the 14th – 17th August, 2023, aligns with Section 92 of the Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703) and signifies a major step towards formalizing the country’s artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector.
Speaking at the opening of the Training of Trainers (ToT) workshop held in Tarkwa in the Western Region, Honourable George Mireku Duker, the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, highlighted the importance of the training program in realizing the government’s commitment to decentralizing the regulation and operation of mining activities. By empowering the DMCs, the government is placing mining operations directly in the hands of local stakeholders, serving as a model for other countries.
The training aims to pave the way for the full formalization of the ASM sector, ensuring that all stakeholders possess the necessary knowledge and skills for responsible and sustainable mining practices. It emphasizes adherence to legal frameworks, environmental standards, health and safety protocols, and the promotion of socio-economic development within mining communities. By formalizing the sector, the negative impacts of illegal mining activities can be mitigated, leading to a more sustainable and inclusive industry.
The Deputy Minister expressed gratitude to the Ghana Landscape Restoration and Small-Scale Mining Project, the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT), and the World Bank Group for their invaluable contributions to the training program. The project has financially and technically supported the development of training materials and manuals, ensuring that participants receive comprehensive knowledge on various aspects of responsible mining.
The Western Regional Minister, Honourable Kwabena Okyere Darko Mensah, also expressed his delight in hosting the training workshop. Recognizing the significance of mining in Ghana, particularly in the Western Region, which accounts for 60% of the country’s gold production, he emphasized the importance of conducting mining operations responsibly and sustainably. He encouraged participants to acquire and apply the knowledge gained to effectively train others and elevate the ASM sector to new heights. As the training program unfolds, the Ghana Landscape Restoration and Small-Scale Mining Project remains committed to building local capacity and promoting the sustainable development of the ASM sector.