Three mining cooperatives launched in Nzema East to promote responsible mining

The government is stepping up efforts to promote responsible small-scale mining, with the inauguration of three mining cooperatives in the Evalue-Ajomoro-Gwira area of the Nzema East Municipality in the Western Region.

The Axim-Agona, Akango-Douale and Adelekezo societies were inaugurated under the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP), which seeks to provide small-scale miners with a structured and legal way to operate while protecting the environment and the livelihoods of host communities.

Speaking at the launch, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, said the fight against illegal mining required more than law enforcement and the deployment of security personnel. He stressed that lasting progress would depend on a change in public attitudes and a collective commitment to responsible mining.

The Minister identified community engagement as a key part of the government’s approach, emphasising the need to involve traditional authorities, students, lawmakers and other stakeholders in efforts to address illegal mining and promote sustainable practices.

He also highlighted the Tree for Life Initiative as part of efforts to restore degraded forests and landscapes. He noted that preventing further environmental destruction must go hand in hand with restoring areas already damaged by mining and other activities.

On reforms in the mining sector, Mr Buah said the government was pursuing a revised mining policy and proposed new mining laws aimed at giving host communities a stronger voice in decisions affecting their lands.

The establishment of the three cooperatives is expected to support a more organised approach to small-scale mining in the area, with emphasis on lawful operations, environmental protection and sustainable livelihoods.