The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has launched a nationwide initiative to reform artisanal and small-scale mining.

The programme, named the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP), was unveiled on August 6, 2025, at Black Park near the Obuasi Len Clay Sports Stadium in the Ashanti Region.

Addressing government officials, miners, and industry stakeholders, the Minister said rCOMSDEP replaces the Community Mining Scheme and the National Alternative Employment and Livelihood Programme (NAELP), which he described as poorly implemented by the previous Akufo-Addo administration.

He explained that rCOMSDEP is designed to address the shortcomings of those initiatives by promoting sustainable mining practices and creating viable jobs, especially in mining communities.

“Today marks a defining moment in Ghana’s journey towards sustainable development,” the Minister stated.

“We stand at a crossroads where mining must become a catalyst for prosperity, not a curse on our land.”

With approval from President Mahama and Cabinet, the Minister said the new programme will focus on three pillars: responsible cooperative mining schemes, skills development and alternative livelihoods, and the restoration of degraded lands.

rCOMSDEP will be implemented through six components: Cooperative Mining Schemes, Mine Support Services, Vocational Training and Entrepreneurship, Environmental Rehabilitation, Agricultural Growth in Mining Areas, and Community Development.

He called on stakeholders to support the initiative: “Let us redefine the future of artisanal and small-scale mining. Together, we can build a sector that is safe, legal, and sustainable.”

“The time has come to turn our waters blue and our forests green through responsible mining. We begin that journey today. We must succeed. It is our obligation to future generations,” he added.

Full nationwide rollout will begin in the coming weeks, including training, certification, and licensing support in partnership with the University of Mines and Technology, Tarkwa.