Ing. Wisdom Gomashie, a mining engineer and special assistant to Hon. Duker, has penned a comprehensive response to Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa’s claims about the government’s handling of small-scale mining.
Gomashie’s article highlights the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) significant achievements in regularizing the small-scale mining sector, making it easier for Ghanaians to engage in legal mining activities.
Small-Scale Mining: A Legitimate Business
Gomashie emphasizes that small-scale mining is a legitimate business, backed by law, as outlined in sections 82-99 of the Minerals and Mining Act 2006, Act 703. He argues that the NPP has improved licensing procedures, making it easier for individuals to acquire licenses and engage in legal mining.
Comparing NPP and NDC’s Performance
Gomashie compares the performance of the NPP and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in managing the small-scale mining sector. He notes that under the Mills-Mahama administration, it was difficult to acquire licenses, leading to an influx of foreign nationals and the commercialization of illegal mining. In contrast, the NPP has regularized the sector, making it easier for Ghanaians to engage in legal mining.
Achievements of the NPP
Gomashie highlights the NPP’s achievements in the small-scale mining sector, including:
- Improving licensing procedures by 27 times
- Opening up the legal business of small-scale mining by 27 times
- Leveraging production to feed downstream industries
- Initiating Community Mining Schemes to impact lives and reduce illegalities
- Developing a Minerals Cadastral Administration System (MCAS)
- Taking steps to protect the environment
Environmental Concerns
Gomashie addresses concerns about environmental footprints, stating that these cannot be blamed on a particular government. He emphasizes that granting miners legal means to contribute to socio-economic development is crucial.
Conclusion
Gomashie concludes that the NPP has achieved significant success in regularizing the small-scale mining sector, making it easier for Ghanaians to engage in legal mining activities. He thanked Okudzeto Ablakwa for highlighting the NPP’s achievements, despite his lack of knowledge in mining.
