The Co-Chair of the Ghana Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative (GHEITI), Dr Steve Manteaw, has raised concerns about the adequacy of staff at Ghana’s Minerals Commission for regulating mining activities.
In a recent statement, Dr Manteaw highlighted the challenges faced by the Commission, particularly in areas like Bole in the Savannah Region.
According to Dr Manteaw, the Minerals Commission office in Wa is responsible for overseeing mining activities in Bole and nearby regions. However, he noted that the limited staffing at this office is insufficient to effectively monitor and regulate mining operations in the area.
Dr Manteaw emphasized the need for a dedicated Minerals Commission office in Bole, as well as additional offices in regions like the Upper West and Upper East. He believes that having local offices closer to mining sites will help reduce distances and improve oversight of the sector.
Speaking on the JoyNews AM Show, Dr Manteaw pointed out the lack of local involvement in the mining sector, leading to increased foreign control. He mentioned that local miners often lack access to credit facilities, forcing them to rely on foreign financing for their operations.
Dr Manteaw also highlighted the presence of foreign nationals from countries like Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger involved in illegal mining activities in Bole. These foreign investors often have informal agreements with local miners, leading to the loss of revenue opportunities for the country.
