By Stanley Senya
Accra, April 3, GNA – The Minerals Development Fund (MDF) has extended its heartfelt condolences to families of the Mpasatia galamsey tragic deaths.
A statement copied to the Ghana News Agency in Accra, said the MDF received with deep concern reports of a tragic incident at Mpasatia in the Ashanti Region, where a mining pit collapsed at an illegal mining site, resulting in the unfortunate loss of five lives.
It said the incident was yet another painful reminder of the dangers associated with illegal mining (galamsey), which continued to pose significant risks to human lives, communities, and the environment.
It said to fight such dangers, the MDF in collaboration with relevant government agencies and stakeholders, remained committed to supporting efforts aimed at eliminating illegal mining activities and promoting responsible and sustainable mining practices in Ghana.
“We wish to assure the general public that the MDF, working in partnership with the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the Minerals Commission, security agencies, and local authorities will intensify measures to dismantle unlawful mining activities and ensure compliance with safety standards,” it said.
It further added that, it would partner with local leaders, civil society organizations, and Non-Governmental Organizations to expand alternative livelihood initiatives to reduce dependence on illegal mining, focusing on vocational training, sustainable agriculture, Poultry and entrepreneurship opportunities.
“We will also continue to provide the necessary
resources to enhance the development of mining communities and ensure that mining activities are conducted in a safe, regulated, and environmentally sustainable manner,”
It added.
It urged all individuals and groups involved in illegal mining to desist from such activities and take advantage of government-sanctioned programmes aimed at providing alternative livelihood opportunities.
“The MDF remained committed to ensuring that the mineral wealth of Ghana is harnessed responsibly for the benefit of all.”
“Once again, we express our deepest sympathies to the bereaved families and call for collective action to prevent such unfortunate incidents in the future,” the statement added.
GNA
CA/