The incoming NDC government intends to replace the current Community Mining Scheme with a Cooperative Mining Scheme, because the NPP approach benefited Chinese nationals instead of local communities.
“Our Cooperative Mining Scheme will focus solely on empowering locals in mining communities. Unlike the NPP’s scheme, ours will be structured to serve the people directly,” he stated.
As a result, an NDC government would create a special fund, under strict supervision of mining experts to ensure adherence to best practices and environmental protection while supporting cooperative mining activities.
Dr Tony Aubynn, Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Election Committee for Mining, who disclosed this while addressing the media in Kumasi in a post-election meeting, emphasised NDC’s dedication to transforming Ghana’s mining sector, particularly the small-scale mining sub-sector, which has long been plagued by illegal activities and thus threatened the environment and river bodies.
Dr Aubynn further urged miners to rally behind the NDC to help reform the small-scale mining sector.
He criticised the current government for mismanaging the industry and expressed confidence in the NDC’s ability to restore the sector for economic growth.
Dr Tony Aubynn commended small-scale miners for their massive support and commitment to safeguarding the party’s votes in mining constituencies during the 2024 elections.
Dr Aubynn urged miners to rally behind the NDC to help reform the small-scale mining sector because the NPP administration mismanaged the industry.
The committee spearheaded the NDC’s campaign in mining communities across the country and took note of all concerns facing the small-scale artisanal mining sector.
The NDC’s 2024 mining campaign team comprised Dr. Anthony Aubynn, Mr. Samuel Hajor, Michael Kojo Preprah, Adjei Baffour Acquah and Ebenezer Ayehu.
Dr. Aubynn noted that miners had shared their concerns during the party’s campaign, highlighting challenges in the small-scale mining industry and assured miners that the NDC would address these issues by establishing district offices of the Minerals Commission in all mining areas.
“Illegal mining became rampant in Ghana because miners were struggling to secure licenses from Accra. Small-scale miners had to travel long distances, often staying in hotels, just to chase licenses. When frustration sets in, many resort to illegal mining.
“Under an NDC administration, we will bring licensing offices closer to miners to simplify the process and enforce regulations effectively,” he assured.
