The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has expressed deep gratitude to small-scale miners for their substantial contribution to the party’s victory in the 2024 general elections. Dr. Tony Aubynn, Chairman of the NDC’s Election Committee on Mining, lauded the miners for their unwavering support, acknowledging their vigorous campaigning and meticulous documentation of the challenges confronting the small-scale artisanal mining sector. This grassroots engagement proved instrumental in securing critical votes within mining constituencies, solidifying the NDC’s path to victory. The NDC’s triumph signifies not only a political shift but also a renewed hope for the revitalization of Ghana’s mining sector, particularly the small-scale mining subsector, which has long been plagued by systemic issues and environmental concerns.
The NDC is poised to prioritize the transformation of Ghana’s mining landscape, with a particular emphasis on addressing the long-standing challenges that have beset the small-scale mining sector. Dr. Aubynn identified the prevalence of illegal mining activities as a significant concern, stemming largely from the difficulty in acquiring licenses from the centrally located Minerals Commission office in Accra. The arduous process and considerable distances involved have pushed many aspiring miners towards illegal operations, jeopardizing both environmental sustainability and the economic potential of the sector. To combat this, the NDC plans to decentralize the licensing process by establishing Minerals Commission district offices in all mining areas, bringing these crucial services closer to the miners themselves. This strategic move aims to streamline the licensing procedure, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and facilitate greater compliance with regulations, fostering a more responsible and sustainable mining environment.
A core element of the NDC’s mining reform agenda involves the introduction of a Cooperative Mining Scheme, designed to replace the existing Community Mining Scheme. Dr. Aubynn criticized the current scheme implemented by the outgoing New Patriotic Party (NPP), alleging that it primarily benefited foreign entities, particularly Chinese nationals, at the expense of local communities. The NDC’s proposed Cooperative Mining Scheme, in contrast, prioritizes the empowerment of local communities, ensuring that they directly benefit from the mining activities within their regions. This approach aims to redress the perceived imbalances of the previous scheme, fostering local ownership and control over mining resources, and ensuring that the economic benefits generated are channeled back into the communities themselves.
To further bolster the Cooperative Mining Scheme, the NDC intends to establish a dedicated fund specifically designed to support cooperative mining activities. This fund, overseen by mining experts, will adhere to stringent guidelines to ensure responsible resource management, environmental protection, and the adoption of best practices within the sector. This financial support mechanism will provide crucial resources for local cooperatives, enabling them to invest in sustainable mining practices, enhance their operational capacity, and contribute more effectively to the overall economic development of their communities. By combining decentralized licensing with a community-focused cooperative model and dedicated financial support, the NDC aims to create a more equitable and sustainable mining sector that genuinely benefits local populations.
The NDC’s call to action extends beyond mere political support; it urges all miners to actively participate in the reform process, working collaboratively with the party to revitalize the small-scale mining sector. Dr. Aubynn’s critique of the previous government’s mismanagement underscores the urgency of these reforms. The NDC believes that their comprehensive strategy – which encompasses decentralized licensing, community-focused cooperatives, and dedicated funding – represents a significant departure from the past and offers a viable pathway towards restoring the sector’s economic vitality and ensuring its long-term sustainability. This collaborative approach, involving both policymakers and miners themselves, is crucial for achieving the NDC’s vision of a responsible and prosperous mining sector.
The NDC’s 2024 mining campaign team, comprising a diverse group of experts and community representatives, reflects the party’s commitment to inclusivity and collaboration. Led by Dr. Anthony Aubynn, the team includes Mr. Samuel Hajor, Michael Kojo Preprah, Adjei Baffour Acquah, and Ebenezer Ayehu. This team played a crucial role in engaging with mining communities, understanding their concerns, and formulating policies that address the specific challenges facing the sector. Their collective expertise and deep understanding of the mining landscape will be instrumental in implementing the NDC’s ambitious reform agenda, ensuring that the party’s vision for a revitalized and equitable mining sector translates into tangible improvements for the people of Ghana. The NDC’s commitment to this reform agenda signifies a crucial step towards creating a mining sector that not only contributes to economic growth but also empowers local communities and protects the environment for future generations.
