Western Region chiefs: Review mineral exploration policy

The Minerals Commission has been called upon to review the policy on mineral exploration in the country for transparency and peaceful co-existence.

“The current arrangements where the Minerals Commission gives the exploration licence to prospective mining companies in Accra to come and operate in the region should be a thing of the past,” chiefs in the Western Region have said.

According to the chiefs, the processes should start from a district where the exploration will be done -- this would enable all stakeholders to come together and share ideas as well as make inputs before any operation starts.

Nana Kwesi Agyeman, Omanhene of Lower Dixcove Traditional Area, made the call on behalf of chiefs in the region at a workshop organised by the Minerals Commission on the theme “Protection of Mineral Resources -- The Role of the Chiefs”, at Agona Nkwanta in the Ahanta West District.

He said before any operation, it is important for the mining company and stakeholders such as the chiefs and communities among others to be educated and informed on how the land will be reclaimed when the mine is no more.

“This is necessary so that it will be the responsibility for all to monitor, evaluate and ensure that right thing is done before, during and after the operations as well as prevent future misunderstanding,” he added.

He noted that chiefs in the region are aware of the illegal mining activities, and suggested that small-scale miners should be given the requisite training in order to acquaint themselves with new techniques and use of chemicals to help minimise the pollution of rivers and degradation of land.

“The activities of illegal foreign miners must be stopped by the authorities and those involved -- we must not look on unconcerned but take the appropriate measures to get them out of the country,” he said.

He said that the country needs to protect its mineral resources by taking the appropriate decision to safeguard them.