The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has expressed its commitment to reforming Ghana’s mining sector, particularly the small-scale mining subsector, following the announcement of John Dramani Mahama as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2024 elections. Dr. Tony Aubynn, Chairman of the NDC’s Election Committee on Mining, commended small-scale miners for their support and acknowledged their crucial role in the party’s electoral strategy, especially within mining constituencies. Recognizing the historical challenges plaguing the small-scale mining industry, including illegal activities that have devastated the environment and polluted water bodies, the NDC has pledged to prioritize addressing these issues and empowering local miners. This commitment stems from discussions held with miners during the campaign period, where concerns about the difficulties in obtaining licenses and the negative impacts of the current Community Mining Scheme were highlighted.
The NDC’s proposed reforms center on decentralizing the licensing process for small-scale mining operations. Currently, miners often face significant bureaucratic hurdles and are forced to travel long distances to Accra to obtain the necessary permits. This cumbersome process, Dr. Aubynn argued, has fueled illegal mining as frustrated miners resort to unregulated activities out of desperation. To combat this, the NDC plans to establish Minerals Commission district offices in all mining areas, making licenses more accessible and reducing the logistical and financial burdens on small-scale miners. This localized approach aims to streamline the licensing system, making it easier for miners to operate within the legal framework and fostering greater compliance with environmental regulations.
Further demonstrating its commitment to supporting local communities, the NDC plans to replace the existing Community Mining Scheme with a Cooperative Mining Scheme. The party criticizes the current scheme implemented by the New Patriotic Party (NPP), alleging that it disproportionately benefits foreign nationals, particularly Chinese investors, at the expense of local communities. The NDC’s proposed Cooperative Mining Scheme will prioritize local empowerment, ensuring that the benefits of mining activities directly contribute to the economic and social development of the communities where they operate. This locally-focused approach aims to redress what the NDC perceives as an imbalance in the current system, ensuring that Ghanaian communities reap the rewards of their own natural resources.
To further bolster the Cooperative Mining Scheme, the NDC intends to establish a dedicated fund to support its activities. This fund will be overseen by mining experts to ensure responsible and sustainable mining practices are adhered to. This expert oversight is crucial for safeguarding the environment and ensuring that mining operations are conducted in a manner that minimizes negative ecological impacts. By providing financial support and expert guidance, the NDC aims to create a thriving and sustainable small-scale mining sector that benefits both the miners and the environment.
The NDC’s emphasis on reforming the small-scale mining sector reflects the party’s broader vision for Ghana’s mining industry. By addressing the challenges faced by small-scale miners, the NDC aims to create a more equitable and sustainable sector that benefits local communities and contributes to the country’s economic growth. The party believes that its proposed reforms will not only curb illegal mining and protect the environment but also empower local miners and foster economic prosperity in mining communities. This comprehensive approach seeks to transform the small-scale mining sector into a responsible and beneficial industry for all Ghanaians.
The NDC’s focus on decentralization, local empowerment, and environmental protection within the mining sector underscores the party’s commitment to promoting sustainable development and improving the livelihoods of Ghanaian communities. By streamlining the licensing process, establishing a cooperative mining scheme, and providing financial and technical support, the NDC aims to create a more inclusive and responsible mining sector that benefits all stakeholders. This commitment to reforming the mining sector forms a key component of the NDC’s broader economic agenda and reflects its vision for a more prosperous and equitable Ghana. The party’s campaign team, comprising Dr. Aubynn and other key members, will continue to engage with miners and communities to refine their policy proposals and ensure that they effectively address the challenges and opportunities within the mining sector.
