The flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has pledged to allocate at least GH₵10 million annually to the Geological Survey Authority.
This initiative is part of the NPP’s strategy to enhance the benefits Ghana derives from its mineral resources.
Dr. Bawumia criticized the current “trial and error” approach used by companies with prospecting licenses, which he believes leads to environmental damage.
He emphasized that a more structured approach is necessary for effective mineral exploration.
“We intend to resource the geological survey department with at least GH₵10 million every year to locate the minerals. This will prevent the trial-and-error process of exploring minerals which destroy the environment”.
He further explained that with precise mineral location data from the Geological Survey, exploration companies can be better directed.
His administration aims to introduce a community mining scheme supported by a common user facility.
Dr. Bawumia also stressed the importance of involving traditional chiefs in the mineral licensing process to ensure sustainable and equitable mining practices. He proposed that chiefs should have a stake in future small-scale mining operations.
“We will initiate the community mining scheme and provide them with a common user facility for them to mine.” Dr Bawumia said while campaigning in the Akwatia constituency.”