The Paramount Chief of the Western Nzema Traditional Area, His Royal Majesty Awulae Kwasi Amakye III, has endorsed the government’s efforts to transform Ghana’s small-scale mining sector, stressing that economic development must never come at the expense of the environment and future generations.
The traditional ruler made the remarks when officials of the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) paid a courtesy call on him to present the government’s flagship initiative aimed at promoting responsible, legal, and sustainable small-scale mining.
Briefing the Paramount Chief, the National Coordinator of rCOMSDEP, Ms. Ama Mawusi Mawuenyefia, explained that the programme represents a significant shift from the previous community mining model by placing greater emphasis on skills development, environmental responsibility, community participation, and job creation.
She noted that, unlike the previous framework, traditional authorities now play a central role in determining community priorities and setting the conditions under which investors may operate.
“Traditional rulers have been given a voice to define the expectations of their communities. These agreements are formally documented, witnessed, and approved by rCOMSDEP before the Minister grants a mining lease,” she explained.
Responding to the presentation, Awulae Kwasi Amakye III welcomed the initiative but cautioned that its credibility would depend on strict enforcement and genuine adherence to responsible mining practices.
He warned that no individual or company should be allowed to exploit the programme as a cover for illegal or environmentally destructive mining.
“If you look at Ghana’s mineral map, you will realise that the mineral resources on my land remain largely untapped. I am not against mining, but until the right framework is in place, we will not permit mining here. We cannot trade our future for present needs if it is done irresponsibly,” the Paramount Chief stated.
In response, Ms. Mawuenyefia assured the traditional leader that rCOMSDEP, working closely with the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) and other state institutions, will take firm action against individuals who attempt to misuse the programme for illegal mining.
She assured the Paramount Chief that rCOMSDEP will continue to champion responsible mining practices that protect the environment, create sustainable livelihoods, and deliver lasting benefits to host communities.
