The government has made it clear that it will not approve the sale of the NEWMONT Akyem mine unless the new investors demonstrate significant local participation in the project.
This strong stance comes in response to recent announcements from the management of NEWMONT, which indicated that the process to sell its Akyem mine is at an advanced stage.
In an interview with Ahotor News, Martin Ayisi, the CEO of the Minerals Commission, emphasized that the government is committed to ensuring that local communities and stakeholders benefit from the mining industry.
“Our position is firm: any potential investors must adhere to the local content regulations we have in place.
This means ensuring that Ghanaians, particularly those in the communities surrounding the mine, have meaningful involvement in the operations,” Ayisi stated.
The requirement for local participation aligns with the government’s broader strategy to boost economic development and create jobs in the mining sector.
Ayisi explained that the local content policy is not merely a regulatory measure; it is a fundamental aspect of fostering sustainable development in the mining industry.
“We want to see local businesses, suppliers, and workers actively engaged in the mining process.
This will help to create a ripple effect of economic benefits within the communities,” he added.
The announcement of the sale process by NEWMONT has raised eyebrows within the industry, especially given the mine’s significant contributions to the national economy.
As such, the government’s insistence on local participation reflects its commitment to not only protect national interests but also to ensure that the benefits of mining are equitably shared.
Ayisi also noted that the Minerals Commission will conduct thorough due diligence on any potential buyers to assess their plans for local engagement.
“We will scrutinize their proposals closely and engage with community leaders to ensure that there is a clear plan for local participation before any sale is approved,” he stated.
As discussions around the mine’s sale continue, community leaders and local stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation, hopeful that the government’s position will lead to increased local investment and job creation in the region.
The Akyem mine, which has been a significant source of revenue for both the company and the government, has the potential to further uplift the local economy if managed with a focus on community involvement.
In conclusion, the government’s firm stance on local participation serves as a reminder of its commitment to fostering a more inclusive and sustainable mining sector in Ghana.
The ongoing dialogue between the government, NEWMONT, and local communities will be crucial in shaping the future of the Akyem mine and ensuring that the benefits of this valuable resource are shared widely.
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Story by Osei Akoto (Teacher Kojo) #Ahotoronline.com
