In a significant policy announcement, John Dramani Mahama, the Flagbearer and Leader of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has committed to decentralizing the licensing process for mining operations in Ghana.
Speaking at a policy dialogue engagement with stakeholders in the small-scale mining industry, John Mahama outlined the NDC’s plan to establish Minerals Commission offices in various mining districts across the country.
The NDC Flagbearer emphasized that these new offices would be staffed with officers authorized to issue mining licenses directly to operators.
This move aims to streamline the licensing process and make it more accessible to small-scale miners.
Mr. Mahama believes this move which will be implemented by the next NDC government will ensure easier access to licenses and address the bureaucratic hurdles currently faced by small-scale miners.
The policy dialogue was meant to provide a platform for the NDC Flagbearer to hear firsthand the challenges faced by small-scale miners and to discuss potential solutions.
During the engagement, John Mahama listened to the concerns of the miners and promised to address these issues when he assumes office.
John Mahama also stressed the importance of removing political influence from the licensing and concession processes.
“The politicization of licensing and concessions will be a thing of the past,” he assured, highlighting the NDC’s commitment to fairness and transparency in the mining sector.
This announcement is part of a broader strategy by the NDC to support and regulate the mining industry, ensuring that it contributes positively to the nation’s economy while protecting the interests of small-scale miners.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu/Radiogoldlive.com
