The Vice-President of Ghana and NPP Presidential Candidate, H. E. Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has assured to empower the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) and other institutions to explore and maximize Ghana’s natural resources. According to the Vice-President, the fight against illegal mining and managing the country’s resources needs a paradigm shift involving all stakeholders in the sector to achieve the mining vision.
Dr. Bawumia said this in his address as the Special Guest of Honour for the 3rd Annual Transformational Dialogue on Small-Scale Mining organised by the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) on the theme: “Charting Our Country Mining Vision and the Future of Illegal Mining”.
Outlining the Country’s Mining Vision, Dr. Bawumia underscored that natural resources play a critical role in ensuring the sustainable development of Ghana and prosperity for all. He noted that it is imperative to ensure sustainable measures and alternative livelihood strategies are in place to empower miners in the sector to optimise the full benefit of mineral resources in the country. He also mentioned among other objectives that the government will equip Universities offering mining related academic programmes and institutions such as the Ghana Geological Survey Authority to help in the exploration of the mineral resources in Ghana.
Registrar, Dr. (Mrs) Georgina Asi Owusu (left), Director of Finance, Mr. Paul Nana Nketiah (second from left) and other participants at the Dialogue
The Vice-President again explained that it is essential to formalize the small-scale mining sector by empowering Miners with the requisite logistics to mine responsibly which will avoid the destruction of water bodies and forest reserves. He also noted that the Government will promote local gold refineries and ensure a ready market for the mining sector to boost the Country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Speaking on the fight against “galamsey”, Dr. Bawumia admitted that it has not been fully won by the government yet. He, however, was quick to add that it is possible to address the challenges facing the small-scale mining sector through strategic measures.
The Dialogue was Chaired by University Council Chairman, Prof. Kwasi Nsiah-Gyabaah and brought together Ministers of State, Members of Parliament, as well as other stakeholders and institutions in the mining and minerals sector.
In his speech to welcome participants to the 3rd Dialogue by UENR, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elvis Asare-Bediako stressed the importance of proactive measures to safeguard Ghana’s mineral resources for future generations. He emphasized the need for collaboration between government agencies, industry players, and academic institutions to develop a cohesive strategy that promotes economic progress while ensuring environmental sustainability.
Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elvis Asare-Bediako
Reflecting on Ghana’s journey since the endorsement of the Africa Mining Vision in 2009, Prof. Asare-Bediako highlighted the country’s progress in policy formulation but reiterated the need for a tailored mining vision to drive sustainable development in the mining sector.
The event also showcased UENR’s commitment to addressing challenges in the natural resource sector through academic research, capacity building, and outreach initiatives. Prof. Asare-Bediako outlined the university’s strategic priorities, including the establishment of the School of Mines and Built Environment, aimed at fostering innovation and skills development in mining-related disciplines.
Representing the Guest Speaker, Mr. Edward Nana Yaw Koranteng, CEO of the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF), Dr. Kennedy Abrokwa, Head of Business Development in his speech indicated that the government believes in a holistic review and support for Small Scale Mining companies to become world-class miners using key strategic areas. He disclosed that MIIF with a budget of GH¢60 million at the initial stage would establish the Small-Scale Mining Incubation Centre to ensure a readily available market for miners. He added that the overarching goal is to ensure safe, economical, and environmentally friendly mining in Ghana.
Dr. Kennedy Abrokwa, Head of Business Development, MIIF
The dialogue featured panel discussions on financing models for small-scale mining, structural frameworks for Mining Vision development, and stakeholder roles in realizing a sustainable Mining Vision. Panelists, representing diverse sectors, offered insights and recommendations for charting a path forward. The Panel discussion session was moderated by Samson Lardi Anyenini, a Private Legal Practitioner and Journalist, and Prof. Yaw Ofosu-Kusi at the School of Arts and Social Sciences, UENR.
