Accra, Feb.11, GNA – More than 5000 direct jobs are expected to be created in the Ahafo Ano South-West district of the Ashanti Region following the launch of the Kunsu Community Mining Scheme, a Deputy Lands and Natural Resource Minister in charge of Mines, Mr George Mireku Duker, has said.
He said the Kunsu site for innovative Mining Scheme, which had five concessions, would curb unemployment and improve the living standards of the people in the community.
Addressing a gathering of Chiefs and residents at the launch of the Scheme on Friday, Mr Mireku Duker commended some small-scale miners who gave out their concessions to make the project possible.
He urged the miners to adhere strictly to the laws and safety regulations governing the mining industry.
He emphasised that the Community Mining Scheme had come to replace illegal small-scale mining, which posed a threat to the environment.
He called for responsible and sustainable mining practices to protect the country’s resources.
He cautioned against the involvement of foreigners in the community mining scheme, stressing that the innovation was meant to give Ghanaians more stake and benefit from the extractive industry.
As part of efforts to promote safety and environment-friendly mining methods, Mr Mireku Duker disclosed that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo would in the coming weeks launch some mercury-free mining equipment.
He tasked the Municipal Chief Executive of Ahafo Ano South-West to ensure that responsible mining and safety measures were duly followed.
The Member of Parliament for Ahafo Ano South-West, Mr Johnson Kwaku Adu, noted that “one person cannot sustain this project so I will urge you all to join hands and help sustain this project.
“Let’s all do well to follow the right path in order not to destroy our land and water resources. The purpose of this mining module is to protect our resources so let’s all obey.”
Otumfour Hiahene, Nana Prof Oheneba Boachie-Adusei, expressed gratitude to the government for the landmark project.
“We understand that there will be many jobs so let’s strive to sustain it. Let’s also try to keep foreigners away from it,” he added.
Prior to the Launch, the deputy minister paid a courtesy call on the Otumfour Hiahene, Nana Prof. Oheneba Boachie-Adusei as well as the Chief and Elders of Kunsu.
GNA