The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has launched the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Department Programme in Bibiani in the Western North Region.

The initiative aims to curb illegal mining, create employment, and promote sustainable mining practices. 

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Buah highlighted the devastating impact of illegal mining in the country, citing more than 5,500 hectares of degraded land and polluted water bodies.

The Minister, who is also the Member of Parliament (MP) for the Elle Belle Constituency, emphasised the need for a collective effort to safeguard the environment. 

He, however, rejected the "shoot and kill" approach and advocated public education and community engagement. 

The Minister announced government plans to establish a Mobile Licensing Unit to streamline the licensing process and educate miners on sustainable methods. 

Barima Osoaman Ackaah Panin II, the Chief of Sefwi Pataboso, pointed out that galamsey activities had contaminated about 70% of water bodies in the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipality. 

 He said cocoa farmers were compelled to transport water from home to their farms for spraying. 

The chief, who represented the Paramount Chief of Sefwi Anhwiaso Traditional Area, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, commended the government for its efforts and pledged their support for the initiative. 

According to him, the launch of the Boawoman Small-Scale Mining Cooperative in Bibiani marked a significant step towards responsible mining practices in the region. 

Chairman of the Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Mining, Bibiani Branch, Adu Gyamfi lauded the government and the MP for launching the initiative, noting it would promote responsible mining practices.

He encouraged miners to use the opportunity to obtain proper licences for their operations.