rCOMSDEP takes root in Nzema East; three mining cooperatives embrace responsible mining

The launch of three mining cooperatives in Nzema East is set to usher in a new chapter for small-scale mining in the Western Region, with the government pushing for an approach that creates jobs, protects the environment and delivers lasting benefits to host communities.

The Axim-Agona, Akango-Douale and Adelekezo societies were inaugurated under the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) in the Evalue-Ajomoro-Gwira area, providing a structured pathway for small-scale miners to operate legally while safeguarding the lands and water bodies on which local livelihoods depend.

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah at the launch, said, government’s response to illegal mining has gone beyond enforcement and the deployment of security personnel.

He stressed that lasting change would require a shift in the attitudes and actions of Ghanaians.

He identified community engagement as a key pillar of the government’s strategy, explaining that traditional authorities, students, lawmakers and other stakeholders must be part of the national conversation on responsible mining.

He also pointed to the Tree for Life Initiative as an important part of efforts to restore forests and degraded landscapes, noting that stopping further destruction must go hand in hand with rebuilding what had already been lost.

Turning to reforms in the mining sector, the Minister outlined changes under a revised mining policy and the proposed new mining laws intended to give host communities a stronger voice in decisions affecting their lands.

He explained that the proposed framework would establish district mining committees chaired by Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives, with representation from traditional authorities and relevant regulatory agencies, including the Minerals Commission, the Environmental Protection Agency and the Water Resources Commission.

Under the proposed arrangement, recommendations from these committees would guide decisions on mining licences in their respective areas.

Commending the three cooperatives for taking steps towards responsible mining, he urged their members to uphold the programme’s principles, work closely with traditional authorities and ensure that their operations create tangible benefits for residents.

The Paramount Chief of Lower Town Axim and Nsein, Awulae Agyefi Kwame II, welcomed the initiative, acknowledging that although gold mining had contributed to economic activity in Ghana, irresponsible practices had exacted a heavy toll on forests, farmlands and water bodies.

He commended the government for introducing rCOMSDEP as a means of formalising small-scale mining and promoting environmental protection, urging the people of Nzema East to embrace the programme and comply strictly with its regulations.

On his part, the National Coordinator of rCOMSDEP, Mr. Sheihu Sidiqq described the initiative as an opportunity to demonstrate that small-scale mining could be productive, profitable and environmentally responsible.

He called on the Axim-Agona, Akango-Douale and Adelekezo societies to operate strictly within their authorised concessions, uphold transparency and safety standards, and make community development a central part of their operations.