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Bawumia’s govt will promote responsible mining; We won’t ban small-scale mining – NAPO

Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh, also known as NAPO, the Vice Presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has assured that a future NPP government will not impose a ban on small-scale mining. Instead, he emphasized the party’s focus on empowering miners to adopt responsible and sustainable mining practices.

Speaking at a campaign event in the Manso Adubia constituency in the Ashanti Region, Dr. Opoku Prempeh clarified that the NPP aims to differentiate between regulated, responsible mining and illegal activities, which have caused extensive environmental damage. The party is committed to promoting responsible mining practices that protect natural resources while supporting local economies.

NAPO reiterated the promises made by the NPP’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who has pledged to support responsible mining initiatives that will benefit both local communities and the national economy. He emphasized that the party’s policy will focus on equipping miners with tools and technologies that enable responsible operations without damaging water bodies and forests.

This declaration comes as tensions rise ahead of a nationwide strike by Organised Labour, set to begin on October 10, 2024. The strike is a response to growing frustration over the government’s handling of illegal mining, or “galamsey,” which has severely affected the environment and miners’ livelihoods. Organised Labour has called for stronger government action against illegal mining, coupled with support for the formalisation of the small-scale mining industry. They stress the need for a balanced approach to protect both the environment and the rights of legitimate miners.

Dr. Opoku Prempeh assured that a future NPP government, under Dr. Bawumia’s leadership, would promote responsible mining practices and provide miners with the necessary resources to operate in a sustainable manner.

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