Using shortcuts to gain affluence not the way to go – S.K Boafo

Board Chairman of the Minerals Commission has advised the youth in mining communities not to resort to the use of shortcuts to gain affluence or make money.

Sampson Kwaku Boafo says that is not the way out for the next generation.

According to him, most people are sick, while others have also died because they did not use the right method of mining.

“The death of some people have been attributed to witchcraft but in reality, its the way in which we go about mining.”

Mr Boafo was speaking at the launching of the Community Mining Scheme at Manso Nsiana in the Amansie West district of Ashanti region by Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Kwaku Asomah-Cheremeh.  

The programme aimed at formalising mining in selected communities across the country is also expected to create direct and indirect jobs for thousands of residents in the Amansie area.

In 2017, government banned small scale mining and ‘galamsey’ which has led to a high rate of unemployment among youth in mining areas. 

The introduction of the scheme is to streamline and regulate the activities of ‘galamsey’ operators.

Mr Boafo also advises the youth to abide by rules and do things right.

“Making money is good but we should use the right means to make money. To become a better person you have to abide by the rules and do things right,”

Mr Boafo says he was glad to have witnessed witness the Successful implementation of the project in the Ashanti Region after the Ministry was asked to see to the successful implementation.

“We should all be patient and desist from galamsey. The Community mining project is for us and we must embrace it,” Board Chairman of the Mineral Commission said.

The community is advised to follow the necessary process and the laws governing the project.

Member of Parliament for Manso Nkwanta, Joseph Albert Quarm says the people of Amansie West deserve more lands to mine.

“I therefore appeal to the Minister to heed to their expectations,” he added.

He explained the community mining scheme would bring revenue and therefore should be well regulated and managed.

“I was being accused of engaging in illegal mining. I have been vindicated today. It has come to light that the small scale mining is not mine but a group of people.”

Mr Boafo also promised to continue to forge ahead to support scheme as it will open up communities for economic activities.

The District Chief Executive for Amansie West, Nii Larteh Ollenu also expresses optimism the launch of the initiative would create jobs for the youth in the area.

He believes the assembly will monitor to ensure that the miners work according to the rules and regulations of the mining law.

The DCE said the assembly has outlined measures to ensure mining groups fulfill their social responsibilities adding that concerns raised by miners would be addressed.

The programme is expected to create direct and indirect employment for residents.