The Vice-Presidential candidate representing the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has revealed intentions to provide small-scale mining setup loans to youth in mining communities, contingent upon the NPP’s success in the forthcoming elections.
Dr. Prempeh articulated that this initiative aims to encourage miners to adopt internationally recognized best practices, thereby safeguarding the environment and water resources.
During a mini rally held in the Odotobri Constituency, a prominent mining area in the Ashanti Region, the Member of Parliament for Manhyia South emphasized that numerous individuals engaged in illegal mining, commonly referred to as “galamsey,” are hindered by a lack of financial means to implement proper mining techniques.
There are policies governing mining, but because the youth lack the funds, they can’t adopt the best practices, which is why they engage in galamsey. Some foreigners, including Chinese and Indians, are taking advantage of this, pushing them to mine illegally and then purchasing the gold. Others are also sponsoring illegal mining. But if the government provides loans to these community members, the narrative will change.
The government itself will offer loans to the miners and buy the gold from them directly. We will not sell the gold to foreigners in the local market. This will enable the government to raise enough funds for the day-to-day running of the country.
He conveyed assurance that the successful implementation of the project would generate employment opportunities, decrease unemployment rates, and enhance the economic conditions in mining communities.
The mining communities will benefit financially from this project, leading to development and job creation. Traditional leaders (Nananom) will also receive their fair share.
