Bawumia promises miners path to wealth through responsible mining policies

Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has outlined ambitious policies aimed at empowering miners and mining communities across Ghana, stating his commitment to make them “millionaires through responsible mining.”

Addressing residents in Atwima Mponua on Monday as part of his Ashanti Regional tour, Dr. Bawumia shared his vision for sustainable and beneficial mining practices that would create wealth while protecting the environment.

“I want you to be millionaires through responsible mining,” Dr. Bawumia declared to enthusiastic miners and local leaders. “So, we will license you, formalise you, regularise you, and supervise you.” 

Among his proposed policies, the Vice President highlighted a new licensing regime that will involve local traditional rulers, a community mining scheme, and the establishment of a specialised bank to support miners with equipment for sustainable operations.

A key aspect of Dr. Bawumia’s policy approach includes setting up a Minerals Development Bank dedicated to the needs of small-scale miners. 

“This bank will be for small-scale miners to help them access funds for responsible mining equipment,” he explained. “With the right tools, our miners can work efficiently and safely, building wealth for themselves and their communities without compromising the environment.”

In addition to financing, Dr. Bawumia plans to integrate the expertise of the Geological Survey Department into local mining efforts. “The geological survey department will be actively involved, determining the precise location of mineral deposits so there won’t be trial-and-error mining that leads to environmental damage,” he said. 

“We will use mapping to help you find where the gold is, enabling responsible mining in every community.”

Dr. Bawumia also proposed phasing out mercury in mining operations, pledging to introduce gold-catcher machines that operate without the toxic substance. “To protect the environment, we will replace mercury with gold-catcher machines so that everyone can benefit safely and sustainably,” he stated, drawing applause from attendees.

With the crowd cheering, the Vice President assured stakeholders that these measures would ensure long-term development and sustainable wealth for mining communities.