Paragraph 1: Appointment and Optimism
The National Concerned Small-Scale Miners Association of Ghana has expressed enthusiastic support for the appointment of Lawyer Sammy Gyamfi as the Acting Managing Director of the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC). This appointment, announced on January 17, 2025, is viewed by the Association as a significant step forward, carrying the promise of positive transformations within Ghana’s mining sector. The Association’s optimism stems from prior engagements with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) during the 2024 election campaign. These interactions revealed a strong alignment between the NDC’s proposed mining policies and the needs and aspirations of small-scale miners, fostering hope for a more supportive and enabling environment for their operations.
Paragraph 2: Hope for Sector Reforms
The Association’s confidence in Mr. Gyamfi stems largely from the NDC’s campaign manifesto, which outlined policy proposals that resonated deeply with the small-scale mining sector. These proposals addressed crucial issues such as access to finance, streamlining regulatory processes, and promoting sustainable mining practices. With Mr. Gyamfi now at the helm of PMMC, the Association anticipates a collaborative approach to policy implementation, ensuring that the interests of small-scale miners are adequately represented and addressed. This collaborative spirit is seen as essential for driving positive change and achieving the desired reforms within the sector.
Paragraph 3: Prioritizing Sustainable Mining and Transparency
The Association emphasized the critical need for Mr. Gyamfi’s leadership to prioritize sustainable mining practices and enhance transparency within the PMMC. Sustainable mining is crucial not only for environmental protection but also for the long-term viability of the mining sector itself. Transparency in operations, financial transactions, and regulatory processes is vital for building trust, accountability, and investor confidence. By focusing on these two key areas, Mr. Gyamfi can contribute significantly to responsible and ethical mining practices in Ghana.
Paragraph 4: Call for Technocratic Leadership at the Ministry
Beyond celebrating Mr. Gyamfi’s appointment, the Association extended its advocacy to the broader leadership landscape within the mining sector. They specifically urged former President John Dramani Mahama to consider appointing a technocrat with a deep understanding of the technical intricacies of mining as the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources. This call for a technically proficient minister underscores the Association’s belief that addressing critical challenges such as water pollution and environmental degradation requires specialized knowledge and practical experience in the field.
Paragraph 5: The Importance of Technical Expertise
The Association’s insistence on a technocratic Minister for Lands and Natural Resources highlights the complex nature of the mining sector, particularly in addressing environmental concerns. They argue that a leader with a strong technical background would be better equipped to understand the intricacies of mining operations, assess environmental risks, and formulate effective mitigation strategies. This expertise, the Association believes, is essential for ensuring sustainable development, safeguarding the environment, and promoting responsible mining practices. Such leadership would also contribute to the overall economic growth of the nation by ensuring the mining sector operates in a sustainable and environmentally sound manner.
Paragraph 6: Pledge of Cooperation and Future Collaboration
The National Concerned Small-Scale Miners Association concluded its statement by expressing its unwavering commitment to collaborate with the new PMMC leadership, under Mr. Gyamfi, and other relevant authorities. This pledge reflects the Association’s dedication to working constructively with all stakeholders to advance the collective interests of Ghana’s mining sector. By fostering a collaborative environment, the Association aims to contribute to the sector’s growth and development, ensuring its long-term sustainability and positive contribution to the national economy. This commitment to cooperation sets the stage for a positive working relationship with the new leadership and reinforces the Association’s desire for a thriving and responsible mining industry in Ghana.
