Frank Boakye Agyen
Frank Boakye Agyen, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Effiduase-Asokore in the Ashanti region, has called for appropriate regulatory framework that will ensure the country gets full benefits from surface mining.
Surface mining involves the removal of soil, rocks and finite natural resources in the form of minerals from the earth.
According to Agyen, surface mining was the most widespread mining operation in Ghana and had contributed in no small measure in the country’s development.
He stated however that surface mining must be done in a manner that would not destroy the environment and pollute the nation’s water bodies.
Speaking in an interview with CITY & BUSINESS GUIDE, Hon. Agyen said “just like all other forms of industrialization, mining brings us benefit at great cost. As we eagerly try to woo investors to our mining sector, we must anticipate the long term effect of this practice on our environment and the lives of future generations”.
He said if surface mining will continue to be a feature in the country, due diligence must be done to create a fool-proof regulatory framework that addresses the challenges in the sector.
The mining industry, Mr. Agyen observed, generally plays a vital role in the development of the country, accounting for 5 percent of Ghana’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and providing employment to the people.
However, assessment of the impact of mining on the total development of the country, he pointed out, must be done holistically.
The MP acknowledged that the Minerals and Mining Law of 1986 (PNDC Law 153) as amended in 1994 and 2005 provides the legislative framework for the mining sector in Ghana.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Mines and Energy and other agencies have oversight responsibility over all aspects of Ghana’s mineral sector and issuance of mining and exploration licenses
These regulatory frameworks, Mr. Agyen noted, should be able to protect communities from activities of mining companies and activities that are harmful to their health, peace and general well-being.
They should also ensure that communities involved are not only left depleted, but given necessary amenities and development projects and to determine the limits of environmental exploitation and the necessary penalties for offenders.
Mr. Agyen also suggested that policy makers should come out with a long-term plan that will ensure the survival of the thriving mining industry to enable the country gain a fair share of revenue from the exploitation of mineral resources.
By Awudu Mahama
