An ultra-modern office complex has officially been commissioned in Kumasi for the Minerals Commission to strengthen its operations and also enhance the delivery of the Commission’s mandate in managing Ghana’s mineral resources sector.
Other features of the project, which was initiated under the administration of President Akufo-Addo and completed by the current NDC administration, are: a rooftop restaurant, disability-friendly access, modern backup power supply, a security laboratory, and additional office spaces.
The facility is expected to strengthen the Commission’s capacity and provide the necessary infrastructure for its operations.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, commended the government for its commitment to completing legacy projects inherited from the previous administration.
Baffour Owusu Amankwatia IV, Bantamahene, who represented the Asantehene at the commissioning of the new State-of-the-Art Minerals Commission Office in Kumasi, commended the Board, the Chief Executive Officer, the contractor and all stakeholders who ensured the completion of the project, which he described as a source of pride.
According to him, the facility provides modern and efficient office accommodation, and he hoped its opening would mark the beginning of a new chapter for development that will have a global impact.
Alhaji Yusuf Sulamana, the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, said the government is bold in its resolve to invest in the minerals sector and change the narrative decisively.
He acknowledged the role played by the previous administration, especially Mr. Martin Ayisi, the then CEO, in initiating the project.
He described the facility as a minerals hub for the Northern sector, noting that the Ashanti Region plays a critical role in the mining industry and related economic activities.
According to him, the office will ensure effective regulation and help reduce the long delays in the granting of mining leases, which have kept away many potential investors.
Alhaji Sulemana called on community members and small-scale miners to cooperate with the Minerals Commission to ensure responsible mining practices.
Mr. Isaac Tandoh, the Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, said the new office is designed to bring services closer to the people.
He explained that the facility aligns with the government’s goal of providing three critical services: modern and centralized office accommodation for principal administration and as a hub; improved client services and record-keeping for better coordination; and decentralized evaluation services.
He disclosed that the office also houses two laboratory services to provide reliable technical support, research, and credibility, as well as serve as a centre for publications, school visits, public education, meetings, and training to promote responsible and legal mining.
Mr Tandoh said the facility will reduce travel time for the renewal and registration of licenses and cut operational costs. He added that it was designed with responsible waste management in mind.
Dr Frank Amoakohene, the Ashanti Regional Minister, noted that the building is a clear demonstration of continuity in government and commended the Minerals Commission for the huge investment in the Ashanti Region.
“This is testimony that President Mahama is committed to completing all uncompleted legacy projects”, he said.
He noted that the development of Ghana cannot be restarted every four years because the person who started a project is no longer in government, and said public institutions must be accessible and closer to the people.
He encouraged citizens to see the project as belonging to everybody and the country. He added that the office will help bring sanity to the mining sector and the environment, particularly in addressing abandoned mining pits.
The Regional Minister called on corporate institutions to support the reclamation of degraded lands.
He assured that the Regional Coordinating Council remains committed to fighting illegal mining in the region and noted that there is no filling station sited on unapproved lands in the Ashanti Region.
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