Minister Highlights Compliance in Ghana's Mining Sector
Ghana’s Minister of Environment urges mining firms to adhere to environmental laws to protect communities.
In a recent engagement, Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, the Minister of Environment, Science and Technology (MEST), emphasized the critical need for mining companies in Ghana to align with laws and regulations that govern the extractive industry. This call to action aims to mitigate the negative environmental impacts that mining activities can have on local communities.
Importance of Compliance
Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings highlighted the unfairness faced by communities that host mining operations suffering from environmental degradation and deforestation. The minister expressed her concern about the immediate need for reforms within the mining sector to protect these vulnerable areas.
“I hope that with the expanded mandate of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), more mining operations will comply and act in the best interest of the people of Ghana,” she stated.
Site Visit to Zijin Golden Ridge Limited
During an inspection at Zijin Golden Ridge Limited in the Abirem area of the Eastern Region, Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings gained firsthand insight into the company’s mining practices. She was accompanied by the EPA's Chief Executive Officer, Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse, along with other ministry officials.
The visit also included a stop at an illegal small-scale mining site in Osino. Upon the arrival of the ministerial convoy, miners at the site fled, highlighting the ongoing challenges posed by unregulated mining activities in the region.
Commendations for Sustainability Efforts
Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings praised Zijin Golden Ridge Limited for its initiatives focused on environmental sustainability, including their efforts in land reclamation and forest preservation.
“We have been given a tour of the Zijin mine, including the FTS. For me, this visit showcased the importance of reclamation, reforestation, and preservation of our environment,” she remarked.
Recognizing the long-term commitment involved, she pointed out that trees do not mature overnight, thus emphasizing the significance of sustained efforts in environmental care. The minister acknowledged the vital role of the extractive industry and the essential need to minimize human impact on nature.
Addressing Future Challenges
Another exciting development discussed during the visit was Zijin’s initiative to create a recycling facility for electric vehicle (EV) batteries. Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings noted that as the adoption of EVs increases, proper disposal methods and recycling systems will be paramount.
Additionally, she expressed deep concern regarding the land destruction observed in Osino due to illegal small-scale mining and committed to collaborating with stakeholders to tackle this pressing issue.
Mr. Kwame Obeng Dapaah, the Environment Manager at Zijin Golden Ridge Limited, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to environmentally responsible mining. He indicated that the firm is undertaking a 10-year project to revegetate 303 hectares of forest reserve, with over 40 hectares already restored.
Dapaah classified illegal small-scale mining as a significant threat and called for a collaborative effort to enhance government action against such practices, aiming to mitigate the risks posed to both the environment and local communities.
