Josiah
The government of Ghana has taken the decisive step of shutting down the operations of the Chinese mining company, Ganhe Mining Company Limited, located in Wassa Abreshia in the Western Region. This action was prompted by information received by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, revealing that despite having acquired a license and a mining concession, the company was involved in illegal activities instead of legitimate mining operations.
The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, George Mireku Duker, made this announcement during an unannounced visit to the company. He ordered an immediate halt to the company’s mining activities and issued a stern warning that the government would not tolerate any form of illegality within the mining industry. He encouraged mining communities across the country to actively engage in the fight against illegal activities within the sector.
Ganhe Mining Company Limited, situated in the heart of Wassa Abreshia, appeared to be a licensed mining operation. However, it was revealed that the company was, in fact, procuring mineral-rich soil from other mining firms for processing and sale. This practice was deemed illegal and unacceptable by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
Mireku Duker stressed the importance of mining communities taking the lead in combating various forms of illegal activities and not solely relying on the government and the ministry to address these issues. He emphasized the need for transparency and cooperation among stakeholders in the mining industry, including government, security agencies, and those involved in the value chain, to curb illegal mining practices.
The Administrative Manager an
d Chief Interpreter of Ganhe Company Limited, Amoako Louis Osafo, acknowledged the challenges facing the company and expressed regret over the government’s decision to shut down their operations. He also expressed concerns about the encroachment of the company’s concessions by illegal mining operators.
The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has pledged to take decisive action to streamline activities within the mining industry, with the ultimate goal of its growth and development. The Ministry has called for cooperation from all stakeholders and assured them that the industry will be thoroughly cleansed and improved as part of this effort.
Source: Omanghana.com
