The chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Election Committee on Mining, Dr Tony Aubynn, has commended small-scale miners for their massive support, which ensured the party’s victory during the 2024 general elections.
He also applauded them for their commitment to safeguarding the party’s votes in mining constituencies by vigorously campaigning and taking notes of all concerns facing the small-scale artisanal mining sector.
Speaking to the media in Kumasi after President-elect John Dramani Mahama’s election, Dr. Aubynn emphasized the NDC’s dedication to transforming Ghana’s mining sector, particularly the small-scale mining sector.
NDC’s Plans for the Mining Sector
Dr. Aubynn noted that the small-scale mining subsector has long been plagued by illegal activities threatening the environment and rival bodies
He said the miners’ concerns shared during the party’s campaigns, highlighting challenges in the small-scale mining industry, would be addressed by establishing Minerals Commission district offices in all mining areas.
“Illegal mining became rampant in Ghana due to the inability to secure licenses from the Mineral Commission office in Accra after embarking on long distances. The frustrations encountered resort to illegal mining,” he emphasized.
“Under an NDC administration, we will bring licensing offices closer to miners to simplify the process and enforce regulations effectively,” Dr. Aubynn assured.
Cooperative Mining Policies
Dr. Tony Aubynn outlined plans to replace the current Community Mining Scheme with a Cooperative Mining Scheme.
He criticized the ruling New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) approach, claiming that it benefited Chinese nationals instead of local communities.
“Our cooperative mining scheme will focus solely on empowering locals in mining communities. Unlike the NPP’s scheme, ours will be structured to serve the people directly,” he stated.
He added that the NDC government would create a special fund to support cooperative mining activities.
This fund would operate under the strict supervision of mining experts to ensure adherence to best practices and environmental protection.
A Call to Action
Dr. Aubynn further urged miners to rally behind the NDC to help reform the small-scale mining sector.
He criticized the current government for mismanaging the industry and expressed confidence in the NDC’s ability to restore the sector for economic growth.
The NDC’s 2024 mining campaign team included Dr. Anthony Aubynn, Mr. Samuel Hajor, Michael Kojo Preprah, Adjei Baffour Acquah, and Ebenezer Ayehu.
Source: Ghana/otecfmghana.com/Francis Appiah
