Accra, Dec. 16, GNA – The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has launched an award scheme to honour responsible miners within the small-scale mining industry.
It is aimed at celebrating those who adhere to the health, safety and environmental standards guiding their operations.
A statement issued and copied to the Ghana News Agency said the event, to be held annually, would see the maiden edition being held on December 22, 2021 on the theme: “Promoting Responsible and Sustainable Small-Scale Mining.”
The award categories will include: Most Promising Small-Scale Miner; Best Female Small-Scale Miner; Best Male Small-Scale Miner; Best in Environmental Stewardship; and Best in Corporate Social Responsibility.
Mr Samuel Jinapor, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, charged Ghanaians to protect the environment by avoiding illegal mining.
“Mining is central to economic development, however, the destruction of our environment and river bodies due to the illegal act contradicts our duties as citizens. We have a duty to protect the environment,” he said.
The Ministry was determined to stop the activities of illegal miners and would continue to employ all necessary measures to fight it, he said.
This year’s award has the potential to contribute to livelihood empowerment and poverty alleviation in Ghana and government intends to put in measures such as establishing a Minerals Development Bank to address the needs of small-scale miners.
GNA