By Anthony Adongo Apubeo Bolgatanga, Nov. 19, GNA – The Ghana Chamber of Mines has urged leaders and residents in the Upper East Region to f...
By Anthony Adongo Apubeo
Bolgatanga, Nov. 19, GNA – The Ghana Chamber of Mines has urged leaders and residents in the Upper East Region to fully capitalize on the growing gold mining prospects to boost local progress, generate employment, and draw significant investments into the region.
A call was placed during a visit by a group from the Chamber, headed by its Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ken Ashigbey, who paid a formal visit to Mr Donatus Atanga Akamugri, the Upper East Regional Minister in Bolgatanga, as part of a working trip to Cardinal Namdini Mining Ltd (CNML), a member of the Chamber.
The visit was part of the Chamber's initiative to promote the Purple Peach project, which seeks to enhance menstrual hygiene for girls and decrease school absences caused by the absence of sanitary pads by providing them to certain schools in the Talensi District.
Dr. Ashigbey mentioned that the existence of a major, responsible mine like CNML had already started changing the area's appearance, pointing out that the mine's investments, employment opportunities, and contribution to national income were evident signs of the development possibilities this mineral-abundant region offered.
He stated that for many years, major mining activities were focused in southern Ghana, but the swift expansion of industrial mining in the north, especially in the Upper East and Upper West Regions, was changing this pattern.
"Cardinal Namdini has already poured approximately US$500 million into building the mine, and they are playing a major role in bolstering the Bank of Ghana's gold reserves, helping to stabilize the economy and enhance living standards," he stated.
He stated that Ghana's natural resources are owned by the people, and when mining is conducted properly, communities can gain significantly through employment opportunities, royalties, growth of local businesses, and better infrastructure.
The CEO stated that CNML was seeking as much as 50 megawatts of electricity, emphasizing that the area is now ready to draw significant industries, assuming the government enhances power facilities in the northern region.
"The Northern region is prepared for large-scale industries. There is already a need for 50 megawatts, and another mine is set to open in Wa. This shows that power projects should not be limited to the South," he emphasized.
During exploration, Dr. Ashigbey mentioned that communities were hesitant to allow their lands to be used for mineral exploration, calling it a significant obstacle and urging the Regional Minister to step in.
He highlighted that exploration is distinct from mining, yet it is an essential scientific procedure to assess the area's future mining possibilities, reaffirming the Chamber's dedication to supporting sustainable mining methods that safeguard the environment, honor local communities, and significantly benefit regional economies.
Dr. Ashigbey emphasized that the Chamber will keep collaborating with the government, local leaders, and community members to make mining a genuine driver of regional development.
"Life without mining is not possible, but it needs to be done in a responsible manner. With proper assistance, the Upper East Region can transform into a center for growth, opportunities, and sustainable progress," he stated.
From his side, the Regional Minister expressed appreciation to the Chamber for expanding its involvement in the region and mentioned that mining is still emerging in the Upper East, highlighting the importance of education and partnership.
The Minister revealed that eight of the 15 municipalities and districts in the area have verified gold reserves, positioning sustainable mining as a crucial route for regional development.
"If we can explore these resources in a responsible manner, give us the next 10 years and Upper East will become the Dubai of Ghana. We only require responsible companies that won't harm the environment or bring about negative social issues," he added.
He praised CNML for its investments and collaboration up to this point, pointing out that while the mine is situated far from main road routes, the changes taking place on site are "massive and impressive."
GNA
Edited by Caesar Abagali / Linda Asante Agyei
