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Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has revealed plans to increase traditional chiefs’ participation in mining licensing processes in the event that he wins the next presidential election.
It was emphasized by him that the proposed action seeks to ensure traditional leaders’ involvement in the mineral licensing process, allowing mining operations to begin in a certain region before they do.
While speaking to the Western Regional House of Chiefs on Thursday as part of his Western Regional Campaign Tour, Dr. Bawumia made this announcement.
Regarding natural resources and their effects on nearby people, the Vice President emphasized the significance of Chiefs in the decision-making process.
Dr. Bawumia went on to explain that the strategy aims to formalize the mining industry by including Chiefs into it, acknowledging their significant role and influence at the local level.
According to Dr. Bawumia, the measure will guarantee that Chiefs have a major say in the licensing of miners and simplify the mining industry.
The Vice President emphasized that more cooperation between the state, mining firms, and local populations would result from including Chiefs in the mineral licensing procedure.
In addition, he emphasized the need for a more inclusive strategy that takes into account the interests of all parties involved, including Chiefs, who he pointed out represent the interests of their communities.
“We want to formalise small-scale mining, but we cannot be successful without the participation of Chiefs. The Chiefs have to be part of the licensing of miners in their locality.”
“They have to be part of the whole process. And so, we have to make the necessary amendments to the Mining Act to do all of this. Decentralise the Mineral Commission to be in the various districts and also decentralise the Environmental Protection Agency.”
Source: Ghanatodayonline.com
