Strengthening policy frameworks key to sustainable mining – Expert

Dr. Kofi P. Amponsah-Mensah, Managing Director of PAMICOR Ghana Ltd, has called for robust policy frameworks to enhance the sustainability of Ghana’s mining sector.

Speaking at the 6th Annual Mining Conference, he emphasized the need for methodical and intentional strategies to safeguard the industry from challenges such as illegal mining, commonly known as ‘galamsey.’

Dr. Amponsah-Mensah highlighted the fragmented nature of Ghana’s regulatory environment, where various agencies, including the Minerals Commission, Water Resources Commission, and the Environmental Protection Agency, operate independently.

He explained that this lack of coordination has led to policy gaps, particularly in areas like borehole drilling.

According to him, while the Water Resources Commission focuses solely on water extraction, it overlooks the potential access to vital geological data that borehole drilling provides.

“Anyone who drills a borehole gains access to information about Ghana’s lithology, which poses a national security risk if not monitored properly,” he noted.

The managing director pointed out historical patterns of foreign influence in Ghana’s mining sector, referencing how Chinese companies initially invested heavily in borehole drilling, only to shift their focus to galamsey, cocoa, and quarry operations.

He argued that this methodical approach by foreign entities underscores the need for Ghana to adopt a similar strategic mindset.

“We must have an agenda that safeguards our industry, one that positions us at the forefront of the African mining sector,” he stated.

Dr. Amponsah-Mensah also stressed the importance of enhancing national security’s role in policy formulation, particularly concerning the management and utilization of mineral resources.

He proposed the establishment of a steering committee to oversee decisions made by various regulatory bodies, ensuring a cohesive and comprehensive policy framework.

On the topic of local content, he underscored the need for a clearer vision beyond just meeting regulatory quotas.

He questioned whether the current approach, which focuses on increasing the number of Ghanaians in the sector, truly empowers local stakeholders to compete effectively.

“Do we have a blueprint for local content? It should not be about having just Ghanaian faces but about developing competencies that elevate our standing in the industry,” he remarked.

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