The Lay Faithful of the Catholic Diocese of Jasikan, the Oti Regional Minister and the Ghana Integrated Iron and Steel Development Corporation (GIISDEC), following a joint meeting in December 2022, have agreed to promote sustainable iron ore exploration in the Oti Region.

The church indicated that while they are not against the exploration of the region’s natural resources for development they wished there was a focus on giving alternative livelihoods to the citizens, hence the joint meeting.

A statement dated January 20, 2023, and signed by the Catholic Bishop of Jasikan, Most Rev. Gabriel A. A. Mante, CEO GIISDEC, Mr. Kwabena Bonsu Fordwor and Minister of Oti Region, Joshua G. Makubu outlined seven recommendations in carrying out the activity.

The three entities agreed that "the Oti Regional Minister and the GIISDEC will ensure that the Mineral Resource Estimation (MRE) activities in the region are carried out in line with “the relevant environmental laws and procedures."

Also, they agreed that "GIISDEC continuously foster dialogue and discussion with stakeholders. GIISDEC will undertake extensive public education on Iron Ore exploration and related matters through the mass media and other channels of communication.”

While GIISDEC hold discussions, the Lord Bishop will use his office to sensitize the public about the mandate of GIISDEC in representing the interest of the government of Ghana regarding the exploration of the Iron Ore mineral.

The statement concluded by indicating that all parties have agreed on the directives “in good faith” in the anticipation that their bond would be strengthened in promoting the development of effective and sustainable Iron Ore exploration in the Region in the best interests of stakeholders.