The Chief Executive of Ashanti Golfields Company (AGC) Sam Jonah has warned of a possible collapse of the mining industry in Ghana if the Country's mining laws are not reviewed. Dr. Jonah believes that the unfavourable mining laws in the country are a major reason for the dwindling fortunes of mining concerns in Ghana.
African countries like Burkina-Faso, Mali and Tanzania are fast becoming mining destinations overshadowing Ghana as the second best mining havens besides South Africa. In an interview with LUV-FM, the AGC Chief Executive said most mining companies have declined to prospect in Ghana because of the difficulty in obtaining mining licences.
Some civil society orgnisations, which are calling for a debate on the review of the country’s mining laws often cite the environmental impact of mining operations. Dr. Jonah however says the sector's contribution to job and wealth creation for the mining communities and the national economy should not be overlooked in such arguments.
In another development, the Ayanfuri Mines in the Central Region, a subsidiary of AGC has collapsed. The company has reportedly exhausted its ore reserves and can therefore not operate any further. As a result, 244 workers are being laid-off.
The Human Resource Manager of AGC, Marterson Armah however disclosed that some of the workers will be deployed to other branches of the company while others will be paid their entitlements. The Chairman of the Workers Union, Gyarko Mensah confirmed that an agreement has been reached between the management of AGC and the workers on issues related to gratuities and entitlements. Myjoyonline
