The Lands and Natural Resources Minister nominee, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has stressed the importance of mining companies working closely with local communities to gain their trust and secure the necessary "social license" to operate effectively at the grassroots level.

According to him, achieving a holistic partnership with mining communities begins with engagement between the mining companies and the communities within which they operate.

During his vetting before the Parliamentary Vetting Committee on Monday, 27th January, Mr Buah emphasised that for mining activities to be sustainable, companies must establish strong partnerships with the host communities.

He highlighted that these communities must feel assured that they will benefit from the operations, both socially and economically.

“Mining companies must work with communities for them to believe that they have the social license at those grassroots levels,” he noted.

He further explained that gaining a social license from communities is critical for the long-term success of mining ventures, as it fosters a sense of shared responsibility and mutual benefit.

“For example, how beautiful would it be for a mining company to allow the cooperative mining that I’m talking about, to allow a community that we ourselves will take the lead in building your capacity? Because we live here with you,” he explained, citing the example of a 2km road constructed by a mining company in one community.

Mr Buah called for a shift in approach, urging mining companies to move beyond mere compliance with regulations and work actively with communities to gain their trust and support.

“I believe if we can reset this fundamental relationship and build trust between mining communities and companies, all of these challenges will not happen, and as a minister, I intend to drive this new paradigm shift,” he concluded.