A 40-year-old former illegal miner from Praso Kuma in the Eastern Region says he is hopeful of a better future after joining the government’s Cooperative Mining Scheme aimed at promoting responsible small-scale mining.
Kwasi Twum, who spent the past 10 years engaged in illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, said he turned to the activity due to limited economic opportunities despite the environmental risks associated with it.
His fortunes, however, appear to be changing following the launch of the Cooperative Mining Scheme at Akyem Kotoku in the New Abirem District.
Mr Twum was among hundreds of residents who gathered to witness the launch of the initiative and participate in a two-day training programme under the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development project being implemented by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
“I took part in a two-day training where we were taught safe mining practices. Now, I am confident that I can work without destroying the environment. We are now part of a group operating within the law,” he said.
The Cooperative Mining Scheme seeks to provide legal avenues for small-scale miners while promoting environmentally sustainable and responsible mining practices.
Speaking at the launch, the National Coordinator of the programme, Ama Mawusi Mawuenyefia, urged residents to take full advantage of the training and comply with responsible mining standards.
She said communities that embrace responsible mining practices stand to benefit from a development fund that will support local infrastructure projects.
“The programme is structured such that when mining is done responsibly, the community will receive support through a development fund for infrastructure projects like schools and hospitals,” she explained.
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, addressing residents, assured them that enrolment into the scheme remains transparent and accessible. He encouraged those who have not yet registered to do so and take advantage of the opportunities offered under the initiative.
The Minister also announced plans to provide the community with a gold processing machine to enhance productivity and improve mining operations.
According to him, the Cooperative Mining Scheme forms part of the government’s broader strategy to tackle illegal mining through strengthened stakeholder engagement, enhanced law enforcement and the creation of alternative livelihood opportunities.
The Paramount Chief of Akyem Kotoku, Oseadeeyo Dr Frimpong Manso IV, pledged the support of traditional authorities towards the success of the programme.
He disclosed that about 500 residents have already been trained, with more than 2,000 others expected to benefit in subsequent phases.
“So far, about 500 people have been trained, with more than 2,000 yet to benefit. No one will be left behind. We will ensure that everyone receives the necessary training and certification,” he stated.
The event was attended by the District Chief Executive for New Abirem, the Eastern Regional Minister and other stakeholders in the mining sector.
For beneficiaries such as Kwasi Twum, the initiative represents an opportunity to earn a living legally while contributing to efforts to protect the environment from the destructive effects of illegal mining.
