Two Community Mining Scheme (CMS) concessions have been launched in Moseaso-Abransie, Manso-Nkwanta constituency, Ashanti Region, with the aim of creating a combined 7,500 job opportunities.
Representing the Sector Minister at the ceremony on July 26, 2023, Hon. Mireku Duker pledged to advocate for responsible small-scale mining as it offers numerous job opportunities for Ghanaians.
The Manso-Nkwanta and Moseaso-Abransie CMS concessions are expected to create 4,500 and 3,000 direct and indirect jobs, respectively.
These 7,500 employment opportunities will be available to residents of the two communities and their surroundings, contributing to the over one million jobs already created in the small-scale mining industry for Ghanaians.
Comparing this substantial number of jobs to the meager 30,000 offered by large-scale mining, Hon. Mireku Duker questioned the criticism faced by the small-scale mining sector, which historically has been instrumental in providing socio-economic opportunities for Ghanaians.
He highlighted the positive impact of the Community Mining Scheme in reducing poverty in mining communities and fostering local players in the mining industry. The Deputy Minister called on the chiefs, residents of Manso-Nkwanta district, and all Ghanaians to unite against mining activities that harm the country’s water bodies and environment, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts in the government’s anti-galamsey fight.
Hon. Mireku Duker praised the two companies for adhering to the CMS manual and urged them to engage in community development projects to foster peace and harmony between the firms and local communities.
He also condemned illegal mining activities along the Black Volta and assured that measures are being taken to eradicate these activities and protect the river.
Hon. Nii Larteh Ollenu, the District Chief Executive of Amansie West, commended the Ministry and Minerals Commission for the innovation, expressing confidence that it will significantly reduce the unemployment rate in the district.
Hon. George Obeng Takyi, the Member of Parliament for Manso Nkwanta Constituency, emphasized that small-scale mining is the domain of Ghanaians, and the government’s initiative ensures that citizens directly benefit from the country’s natural resources.
He promised to play his part in ensuring strict adherence to mining protocols, encouraging the government to open more concessions and provide employment opportunities for his constituents.